Referral to clinic - what to expect

[H20]

Hi Jackie, have been reading your posts, can i ask how things are going?

[Jackie09]

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[lp2]

Omg wow stay strong and it could not be the worst i really hope its benin i have my appointment in just over a week carnt wait to get in over with. I hope you receive good news x

[Motherharris]

Hi Jackie09

I am doing exactly the same. Going on every website to "arm" myself with all the info I can. Im not morbid or a "cup half empty" person. I love life as does everyone. However I just need to be in the know. You know what I mean. Hope you enjoyed the sunshine. Speak soon xx

[Jackie09]

Thank you Motherharris - I was just so scared about the appointment itself I wanted to try to take some of that worry away from others - so if I can do it - anyone can! Another thing to remember is that the staff there are great - very supportive.
I can empathise with what you are going through at the moment - the waiting is an extremely anxious time. I went on every website I could find trying to second guess my type of lump - and of course it didn't make me feel much better, but I felt I needed to arm myself with some information.
I'm in a bit of limbo now as they won't get an exact plan together until I've had a CT and MRI scan. I have to keep telling myself that I'm going to feel a whole lot worse soon - so I should make the most of being (relatively!!) fit until that happens. So I'm off out into the sunshine today!!

It's silly for me to say to you try not to think about it too much - as it's true - most lumps turn out to be nothing serious.

Love and hugs x x

[Motherharris]

Hi Jackie09

So sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I am waiting for my appointment, its on 24th March seems ages away. I found your post regarding your experience really helpful thank you. Sending you lots of hugs xx

[Jackie09]

Thank you Sam - I'm grateful for whatever information I can get x x

[Sam_BCC]

Hi Jackie09

Firstly, welcome to the forums, I am sure you will find it a great source of information and support.

I'm sorry to read of your diagnosis, the first few days and weeks are always difficult when coming to terms with things and getting to grips with your treatment plans, etc.

As well as the support you are receiving 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 better understand your diagnosis, test results and the various treatments available. If you would like to order a copy just follow the link bellow:-

http://www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/diagnosed-breast-cancer/resource-pack-primary-early...

Also, do give the helpline a ring if you need any further support or information. They're on 0808 800 6000. Open 9-5 Monday to Friday and 10-2 Saturday.

Best wishes Sam, BCC Facilitator

[Jackie09]

Hi Katie. Thank you for your reply x x. So have been for results and it's not good news - I have breast cancer which has spread to at least one node. Feeling in shock which is making me feel a bit numb (perhaps this is a good thing to start with!!). I've got a horrible feeling it's spread to the bone in my arm already as that has been aching for a while now. Think the doctor might think that too as I'm having both a CT and MRI scans soon. We will see.

Love and hugs x x

[Whatkatiedid]

Hi Jackie and thank you for your post. Yes, the whole procedure is overwhelming but at least it's over and done with. Great that your getting your results so quickly! I remember when I had similar procedures back in October, it felt all so surreal and the waiting game is pants. But I did get thru it and now it seems like a age ago. It did make me appreciate so much more and determined to enjoy everyday from there on in lol. The doctors would have been very thorough and do not give anything away. I kept looking at my doctor to see if I could read her face for anything but they are just doing their job.
Anyway, best of luck with your results. Let us know how you get on?
Big hugs
Katie x

[Jackie09]

Hi everyone. Just wanted to share my experience as I have found reading other
Oats to be very supportive and informative.

I found a lump about 2 weeks ago and had an appointment at the clinic yesterday. I have been reading the threads on here, so felt prepared for what might come. I am very needle phobic, so came prepared with some Elma anaesthestic cream which works a treat for me.

I had a quick breast exam with a doctor, then wIted for a mammogram. Just to say at this point, my husband was not allowed to come into the room when any of the testing took place - only when speaking to the staff afterwards. The mammogram took about 10 mins and was uncomfortable but not painful. Each breast was squashed for about 10 seconds each - 2 pics were taken of each breast. I asked the lady who did it would I need a biopsy - so I could get me cream ready, but all she would say was tht it was up to the doctor to decide after he had looked at the mammogram results. I later found out that she thought the lump she saw was suspicious, but she gave nothing away to me.

Next, after more waiting around, I saw a doctor who carried out an ultra sound scan. Straight after the scan he said he wanted to do a biopsy. I said I had my cream (which it says takes an hour to work!!!!!) so he scanned another 2 ladies to give it a chance.

To reassured anyone worried about this procedure - I am the BIGGEST whimp out there and I didn't feel a thing really - just the tiniest scratch of the anesthetic going in. I was very overwhelmed at this stage, so didn't ask his opinion re what he saw. However, one of my husband's friends is an oncologist and they said to ask what their level of suspicion is.

Anyway, get the results tomorrow and have obviously convinced myself it's the worst possible news with the worst possible prognosis!!!!

I hope my experience helps to reduce any anxiety re the examinations, especially the biopsy part, which was my biggest worry.

Love and hugs to everyone x x