Doctor very sure its IBC

I found a golf size lump in my breast in May and almost immediately had my first mammogram and ultrasound.  I was told it was benign.  A month later, another similar lump appeared and a small pink bug bite in the skin.  Assuming it was the same as the first, and having a busy summer with three kids, I ignored it.

 

The lumps got smaller  when I had my periods so I figured that meant it was hormonal.  I had a bit of tenderness and pain but more related to needing to wear a loose bra.    Finally went to Dr two weeks ago who assured me it wasn’t cancer but referred me to a breast. Specialist at the local cancer center.  She took one look and ultrasound and told me she is pretty sure it’s IBC.  She did a bunch of biopsies and will call with the results.

 

I still have two kids at home and one in college so that is all I can think about.  I am most interested in types of IBC, treatment protocols, questions to ask…I live in a very rural area so am also worried about determining if I will get the best care here and where the best care is.  I need years to get those girls grown up!

 

Also, I’m kicking myself for waiting three months after the second lumps.  

The biopsy confirmed it today.

 

I could use some help with the jargon regarding types/receptors/acronyms. If someone wants to give me a crash course?

 

The cancer clinic I am at sees two cases a year.  Four hours away is a clinic devoted to only IBC.  I will definitely do a consult there but it would be very hard on me and my family for me to basically move there for treatment.  But I’ve got to do every single thing I can based in the ages of my kids.

 

I am 51 and otherwise very healthy.