Hi everyone
This is my first post on here although I’ve been reading the forums for a few days now and finding them very helpful.
I was diagnosed on March 15th with BC after a mammo, ultrasound and core biopsy and still haven’t had my surgery. I’m going in on April 20th and the long wait is due to the operating consultant being on holiday over the Easter period. I was very upbeat and positive after the diagnosis but have to admit this long wait is turning me into a gibbering wreck. I can’t shake the conviction it must be spreading although the BCN told me that 2 weeks here or there won’t make much difference on a clinical level. Psychologically it’s a nightmare!
Has anyone else had to wait this long?
Also, the lump has been hurting me ever since the biopsy. Is that normal? It’s really sore.
I’d appreciate any feedback you can give me!
Thanks
SJ
Welcome to the forums. I’m sorry to hear of your diagnosis, the first few weeks are always difficult when coming to terms with your diagnosis and treatment.
As well as the support you will receive on the forums you might find it helpful to order the BCC resources pack. It has been specifically designed for those newly diagnosed and contains information to help you understand your diagnosis, test results and the various treatments available. If you would like to order a copy just follow the link bellow:-
You may also like to talk things through with one of the helpline staff, they are there to offer emotional support as well as provide information. The free phone number is 0808 800 6000 and lines are open 9-5 Monday to Friday and 9-2 Saturday.
Just to agree with Rae - the biospied boob can ache for some time afterwards.
My op was over a month after my dx (Christmas got in the way). I had a big Grade 3 lump and my surgeon assured me that the wait wouldn’t make any difference to my long term prognosis. Because of the size, grade and type of cancer I had to have an mx, followed by chemo and rads - but all my lymph nodes were clear, so the chemo was a mopping up ‘just in case’ job.
Easier said than done, but try not to worry too much.
Thank you so much for your replies. I have calmed right down. It makes such a difference when someone who has the same problem tells you not to worry. It really helps.
3 more days till blast off. I have to say I’ve never wanted to go into hospital so much. I just want this thing OUT!
Hope things are going well for you both. Have you finished your fertility treatment Rae and started your chemo yet?
SJ
Hi SJ,
I have started chemo. In fact i was in hospital having Portacath fitted today and then chemo number 2 tomorrow. I am on a regimen called FEC-T. So i am having FEC number 2 tomorrow. (you have 3 of each).
Do you know if you will have chemo post surgery? Please keep in touch and let me know how you are doing.
Rae
x
Good luck with the chemo - it all sounds so scary! What on earth is a portacath? Sounds dreadful! Anyway, I hope your session tomorrow goes well and doesn’t make you feel too horrid.
I don’t know what I’m going to be subjected to yet! Everything has been mentioned but I won’t know for sure till I have the post op appointment when they tell me exactly what type I’ve got.
Please let me know how you get on - think positive thoughts!
I’ll keep you posted on my progress too.
Take care
SJ
Hey esjay,
Sorry for not replying sooner. I had my portacath in and FEC2 yesterday, so have been feeling a bit iffy. More nausea than anything. I did ask for emend which is a stronger anti emetic but I can’t get it for free through my nhs trust. Ah well.
How are you doing? Will be thinking of you tomorrow hope all goes well. Once you know your treatment plan of you have any questions or just need someone to chat to I am all ears.
Rae
X
I hope you’re feeling a bit better now. Feeling sick is the worst feeling ever. How often do you have to have your doses of chemo?
I had my op on Friday and am a bit sore but ok. I’m just dreading the appointment next week when I find out what’s what. I’m terrified of having chemo - I’m such a wuss! Anyway, chin up and let me know how you’re getting on.
Hey,
Nice to hear from you. I am feeling a lot better today. Although I feel very itchy which is odd.
I have chemo every 3 weeks, so 2 weeks out of 3 I feel ok ish.
You will be fine on Friday I promise. I am the opposite to you. I am dreading the surgery. Are you happy with how yours went?
I am feeling better but the weather is gruesome. Nice to be in the warm, although I have been out for a walk in it just to feel human again.
Fingers crossed for Friday. Let me know how you get on won’t you.
Rae
X
Hi Rae
Sorry I’ve taken so long. I’ve been trying to answer you for a few days now but there were problems with the web page.
I’m glad to hear you’re coping with the chemo, that’s really good news. And you shouldn’t worry about the surgery, it’s a walk in the park. They gave me a wonderful premed which began with an “F” but I can’t rememebr the name. God, it was great!!
I have to have 18 weeks of chemo too. FEC, just like you!! 6 cycles and I have my appointment next Thursday with the oncologist to get it all started. Totally dreading it, to be honest! How’s your hair going? Have you had the option of the cool cap or cold cap or whatever it’s called? I’ve said I’ll give it a go and if it doesn’t work I’ll get a wig.
After chemo I have to have radiotherapy. Do you? And then 5 years of hormone therapy. It’s nice to know they’re thinking long term! It’s comforting!
You must be in to your next cycle now. I hope you’re ok and that it’s no worse than the last one. Keep positive and be strong. I’m thinking of you.
Please let me know how you’re doing.
Love SJxx