Breast Cancer Now Forum

Hi I wasn’t asked to do lateral flow tests.  I did ask what would happen if I was told to self isolate and the answer was - we won’t stop the radio once it’s started.  Even if I have COVID they will find a way round.  That said, I do regular LFT myself routinely.  A ... View more

Hi All i had my CT scan and planning meeting this week. CT wasn’t a problem but I didn’t have any tattoos as the radiographer said they didn’t use them there.  my radiotherapy will start in a couple of weeks bug I’m still having 4 weeks. I had heard people having less but the radiographer said it’s down to the dr to decide depending on your cancer type.  I am so grateful that I don’t need chemo I’ll take 4weeks of radio.  My mantra so far has been - if this is the worst that’s to come I’m doing well.  Having clear margins and lymph nodes were early wins, being HER2- was great and a low onco score was even better to lead to just radio. I appreciate not everyone has such a good outcome.  I am anastrozole and so far so good but it’s only been a week!  Trying to exercise regularly to keep the weight down!  one question, what cream do people use?   thanks A ... View more

Hi Lemonsqueezy - think of it as a huge step forward in recovery and focus on how great it will feel to know the cancer has been removed!  Helped me to think about that. Still had wobbles but the consultant knows exactly what they are doing!   Good luck!   Ax ... View more

Hi all I realise I am a bit late to this party but as these stories reads across to mine I wanted to jump in!  I had a diagnosis of invasive lobular cancer on 8 April 21. The MRI only confirmed what was identified from the mammogram. I had a 3 lumps (10 and 12o’clock) and had a WLE with reconstruction on 19 May 21 with sentinel lymph node removal too.  I did stay in hospital overnight as although I was first up for surgery at 9 am I needed a second op the same day to remove a haematoma which caused swelling.  No big deal though.  like you this was picked up on a routine mammogram (I’m 54) which I almost didn’t attend as I didn’t get the booking letter but had a reminder text the day before.  Complete shock at first and couldn’t say the words out loud. I live with my two teenage children ( no partner) and tended to keep busy with work rather than think about it. I only wobbled when telling friends and family.  I am a way down the track now, the surgery successfully removed all with an acceptable margin, the wound is healing nicely. I think the worst part of the surgery was coming away from hospital with a drain which stayed with me for 2weeks. Lymph nodes are clear.  The affected breast is slightly smaller than the other but not massively. I’m now awaiting the results of the Oncotype test to see if chemo will be of benefit or do I get radiotherapy.  I had from the day of the operation off to two weeks after.  I am lucky enough to be able to work from home which makes life easier and wanted the distraction   My advice to anyone is take this in small steps, one day/ treatment at a time and don’t google everything!   good luck to you and all with your treatments.   Axx ... View more

Hi i have only recently been diagnosed myself for the first time. I can only imagine how you feel this being your third time.  I am so sorry you find yourself here again.  You must be an amazingly strong lady keeping going and fighting this disease.   Good luck to you. I don’t know whether a CT scan is significant but I do know a friend diagnosed for the first time has one due too.  Good luck to you xx ... View more

Thanks Kitkat. Well explained!  Was just a bit surprised as they never mentioned that at the planning meeting. I was only expecting a pre op chat.  So I can be tracked from anywhere then after!  all the best!  ... View more

Gosh Jacqui that is tough and I really appreciate how you feel.  I did tell my folks yesterday and kept it light - I’m having an operation as I have primary breast cancer. Tried and tested procedures, consultant knows what she’s talking about etc.  They were both quiet and I guess they are both processing it now.    I didn’t feel great telling them as I am person who hates fuss and I find it hard to talk about these things anyway but I felt I couldn’t not tell them. They would be upset if others knew and they didn’t.   I believe it’s about telling them how much medicine has moved on in recent years ( need to keep thinking that myself too).  You know your mom best and will make the right decision. It’s a shock for all not just yourself and people need time, even my close friends were shocked.  I will check in on my folks and see they are ok. If they can see or hear I am they will feel more comfortable too.  good luck !  ... View more

Thank you Bish  good thing to practice. I have a 45 minute drive there so that’ll be it. Other family will be there and they know so they can help.  This is just another hurdle to get past I think!  best wishes   ... View more

Thank you Shi. It’s really hard to get any words out and I know I’ll fluff it!  Need to practise what to say. They have enough on their plate with caring for each other. Concentrate on the positives I think.  best wishes  Ax ... View more

Hi   first time posting for me as I was diagnosed on 8 April and will go to find out plan of action this Friday (30th). I have worked at home for a year with Covid and have been grateful to have work to focus on. The last few weeks has been tough waiting but work has been the distraction I needed.  Wouldn’t ever agree you live to work but I needed it. I haven’t told family about the diagnosis and few work colleagues know with my theory being I will tell them when I can follow up with this is the plan of action.  there is no right or wrong - do what’s right for you and be kind to yourself.  take care  ... View more