Newly Diagnosed

Diagnosed with breast cancer Recently diagnosed with breast cancer
1

I never thought I would be writing on this forum. It’s just over a week since my lump was diagnosed as cancer and it’s still sinking in. I was originally told the consultant didn’t think it was anything to worry about and as there is no history I wasn’t worried and then it hit me like a tonne of bricks. I am booked in for a lumpectomy in three weeks having to self isolate for two weeks. Had a week away and blanked it out completely but now back to reality and time to think which is driving me insane.

ive always been a worrier but now any little pain anywhere in my body makes me anxious. Since diagnosis I am very aware of my left breast, I think people are looking at me as if they know! I’m worried that the wait will make things worse even though the consultant said not.

I have two young children who should be starting back to school when I should be self isolating. Feeling like the world is against me.

Is this normal? 

2

Writers Sorry you find yourself on here but glad you’ve found the threads :two_women_holding_hands: it is like being chucked out of a plane with no parachute and everything can be a bit of a blur. Take it one step at a time for lumpectomy you will need button front short sleeve pyjamas, pair of flip flops, dressing gown and post op bra front opening one, M&S was good for me, zip front racer back one go up couple of sizes I.e if 34 get a 38 you will be bit swollen post op. Take some anosol the op meds can back you up after op. Take lip balm and hand cream it’s very drying in hospital. Have you been advised which type of bc you have yet? I ask because others can offer support if you know which type. Please do ring the number on here and speak to nurse and do use the someone like me option. Use the surgery threads too, lots of tip and tricks and support :two_women_holding_hands: do also speak to your team they can help with questions and concerns and teach coping mechanisms You always do what’s right for you it’s your journey and you put yourself and your needs first step by step you will get through :two_women_holding_hands: :two_hearts: :two_hearts: :sparkles: :sparkles: Shi xx

3

Hi

I’ve recently had a lumpectomy and the one thing I’ve learnt since diagnosis and treatment is that there is no right or wrong way to think, feel, react. It’s a big shock and takes time to process. I think it’s natural to feel that any Niggle is another lurking problem; I certainly felt this and I understand from taking to my clinical team this is how a lot of people feel. I am feeling less anxious now I’ve had the surgery and as time goes on. I would certainly advise talking to your breast cancer nurse, or the nurses on this forum. 

It also sounds like you are being treated within recommended timescales which is positive. The waiting is difficult. Best advice I’ve had on this forum is to keep off Dr google and reach out to others on the forum and the Breast cancer nurses if you need some advice / reassurance.

wishing you all the best