How did you find your lump/symptoms?

[Lucy_BCC]

Hi 875020079 and welcome to the BCC forums

Along with the support shared here our helpliners are on hand with practical and emotional support for you so please feel free to call 0808 800 6000 to talk things through, weekdays 9-5 Sat 10-2

You may find it helpful to post in the chemo monthly thread relevant to when you started treatment as you will find users on here feeling just the same as you and you can share support, here's the link:

https://forum.breastcancercare.org.uk/t5/Chemotherapy-monthly-threads/bd-p/Chemotherapy_monthy_threa...

Take care
Lucy BCC

[875020079]

Random invitation for breast screening as part of age extension programme ( I am 47). No idea, no palatable lump, no visible sign. Still in shock post-surgery, especially given the size of the tumour. i have now started chemo but it is all so surreal, I can't believe this is happening to me.

J x

[Blue23]

I felt mine in the shower one morning a firm lump like a small marble; it's just below the armpit so it's where i wash every day and am certain it was not there before. 2 weeks later mammogram and USS , the USS confirmed breast ca, but the mammogrm even when magnified in that area, nothing to see. I am 49  and breast tissue denser in under 50's so can make abnormalities difficult to see which is why screening is not promoted at too early an age. She said my breast tissue was dense on mammogram. So mammograms are not to be relied upon. Have just been called up for my first mammogram on the screening programme a few days after diagnosis ! This wouldn't have made any difference anyway but what timing !

[Sodastream]

Hi I'm 43 and I found a lump about 5 weeks ago. I do check my breasts but it's difficult as they're quite lumpy. I found my lump when I knelt down and my breast squashed against my leg, upon feeling it I felt it was large like a golf ball. I left it for 2 weeks to see if it was hormonal and would go down as it had come up so quickly. I couldn't get a doctors appointment for another 10 days and as I wasn't worried at the time said that was fine. The doctor felt it and as my grandmother died of BC she referred me. The day after my appointment I was in pain for a couple of days but naively thought that was ok as BC doesn't hurt. Had mammogram week later and then saw doctor who felt it and thought due to size it was likely to be a cyst they could drain. Was sent for US but doctor said it wasn't a cyst so she'd do some biopsies. Unfortunately for me I ended up in hospital on IV antibiotics for infection and cellulitis from biopsies. Went for results on Wednesday where I was told I have grade 3 BC but need to do more tests on biopsies to tell me which type but they think it may be metaplastic. Will know on Wednesday what I face but doctors have already said they'll start chemo in 1 - 2 weeks to shrink it before surgery (just bought new bras in size 34 G having been a 34DD). I wish I'd have taken it all more seriously when I first found it.

[Mummycrow]

Hi, hope u ok, it's horrible waiting. I had a double mascectomy 4 weeks ago n waiting to start chemo. I'm 49, my mum 69 had a positive lump removed 5 years ago n had radio, my sister 45 had also had positive lump removed 8 years ago but had chemo, both are great now, but now it's my turn! Does run in family but doesn't mean it's bad news, please b positive as it really helps to be so as I've found out. Take care, Angie. X

[Sam_BCC]

Hi carmellow18

It sounds like you're having a pretty worrying time at the moment.  As well as the support you will recieve here you might find it helpful to give the BCC helpline a call on 0808 800 6000. Here you can share your thougts and concerns with someone who will offer you a listening ear as well as emotional support and practical information.  The lines are open weekdays 9 to 5pm and Saturday 10 to 2pm.

Best wishes Sam, BCC Facilitator

[carmellow18]

I found a small lump on my right breast about 3.5 weeks ago, the outer skin appeard red so I thought maybe it was a pimple....but it did not go away so I made an appointment with my doctor and went in today. She examined that lump on my right breast and said it was more superficial than anything, but she also found a bigger lump which was deeper in the tissue right next to the lump i discovered. She referred me to a breast specialist but they could not get me in untl April 16, so also referred me for a mammogram and ultrasound which I have to wait 1 week to get. I am so worried about this only because breast cancer runs on my moms side...3 aunts have passed away of breast cancer and one was only in here late 30's.  I hate this waiting game =/

[Lols]

Hi thought I'd post my story, I've had a quick read through and it seems that a lot of ladies under 50 are dx with bc.
I was 47 ( and a staff nurse) so you would think I could find a lump in my own breast!! That's what the surgeon said anyway. Anyway was in shower and felt a thickening on outer side of right breast, was actually the first night of a much needed weekend away with OH, didnt mention it then, got home worked a week of nights and felt really ill, just exhausted, rechecked thickening and it was now a lump!! Phoned gp examined, lump confirmed, referred to breast clinic. Back in work checked when appt was likely but be as was in charge of ward and finding it add to concentrate, plus I just knew it was something to worry about. Informed would be about 4 weeks as they were busy. Spoke to gp and decided to go privately fr mammogram, us, and biopsy. Surprise surprise they could do this the next day!! Off I went, actually saw the mammogram myself and you couldn't miss it, also saw radiographer s face!! It said it all. Next day us and biopsy whilst having biopsy heard surgeon tell my OH, this is cancer!!! Next few hours a bit of a blur!!
I'm 2 wles later, full ANC 4/25 positive grade 3 , 3.6 cm some dcis as well, six TAC chemo down ( yuk) , one rad left all finished tomorrow, tamoxifen.
Another 2 years before I would have been called for mammogram, it's not just an over 50 year old disease!!!
I think I found this lump because I'd stared swimming a few weeks before I felt it and I'm sure it became more prominent. The year before I'd had pins and needles in hand right side ( same as bc) and occasionally nipple went white and painful for a couple of mins, didnt associate any of this with bc and surgeon says not related !! I think it was so please don't ignore anything it's not just lumps your checking for x ps I feel good now chemos 8 weeks ago and a nearly distant memory, no hair yet though!! X

[tors]

Just bumping up in case anybody else wishes to read it or comment on it x

[Guest user]

I thought I’d post my experience with finding a lump in my breast (only did last night) and would also like to chat to others about it, as I’m quite worried. Everyone keeps telling me not to be worried and I guess here's why: I’m coming up to my period (tomorrow or Wednesday), I’m on the Yasmin pill a while now AND I don't have any other 'symptoms' that usually come with the 'serious stuff'.

Basically, last night, while I was watching TV, I started to notice the utter tenderness and sore areas around my breasts, but noticed it much more in my right breast. I decided to feel around them, and alas, I came across a lump. I freaked out, woke my Mam from her sleep, and was in hysterics. It really frightened me - and it's one of those things that "will never happen to me", well that was silly, because I should have always been checking my breasts all along anyway.

Every month, my breasts get uber sensitive and sore a few days my period. But my right breast is much more tender, the lump inside can move around and is much more swollen than the left. I saw a college nurse today who told me to come back tomorrow to see a doctor. She mentioned that it could just be a cist, a hair follicle or could be something to do with the pill or pre-period. I'm nervous about seeing the doctor tomorrow. There is no pain in my arm, around my armpit or on my side - that's a good sign right? I did read on this website - http://www.patient.co.uk/health/breast-lumps - about various lumps and that most of the time they are not cancerous. Can someone out there reassure a lost soul and please tell me that I’m over thinking everything? Thanks guys, hope to hear from you’s! 

Jessica

[Ferly]

Hi, I thought I'd add my story onto here. First of all, can I just say how shocked but relieved I am that none of us are alone. Also, I'm sorry that each and every one of you on here have gone through what you have. 

I am 20, and I regret to say that I never realised the importance of checking myself. I didn't even find my own lump, a boy (my best friend) did... We got lost in an intimate moment and all of a sudden there was a look of shock on his face. It terrified me that I didn't know my own body well enough to notice it; when I went to my GP (who was brilliant, and referred me straight away), the lump was 30mm which isn't particularly small. They didn't think it was suspicious either because it is hard and smooth, and moves about easily. I haven't had any pain until after my biopsy, which made the lump swell to about 37mm. After that, I have had a little pain which I was told is normal. I did have a swollen lymph gland, which ached, but it has gone down and is no longer painful. 

Hope you are all doing well. Keep strong x

[tors]

Hi, just bumping this thread up to see if anybody wants to add their stories, or for people who might just like to read about how other young women detected their breast cancer,

[Guest user]

Hi all,

I am 37 and felt my lump when I was in the bath. I really ignored it for a few months as I was getting married and did not really want to face the thought of having cancer. I never really checked my breasts before this and I neither did my friends. ( They do now!). 4 months later my husband persuaded me to go to the GP less than two weeks later I was having a mammogram and less than four weeks later I was having my first chemo. The lump was approx 4 cm, so quite large. So my advice is don't leave it if you are worried. The chemo was very successful and two weeks ago I had a lumpectomy and 12 lymphnodes removed, all tissue and nodes clear. So on to radiotherapy.

Take Care

Sunshine 75

[Guest user]

Hi Ladies
I was diagnosed with TN breast cancer in Nov 2012 in my left breast.. I was 35 when diagnosed (now 36). I have since had a lumpectomy, WLE and I'm now mid-way through chemo (FEC-T). I have also found out I'm a BRCA2 carrier (despite no family history) so I'm now considering a preventative bi-lateral mastectomy and reconstruction following chemo.
I too found my lump by chance - I was watching TV and had my left arm resting above my head while lying on the sofa and accidentally brushed my chest with my other hand and felt a small lump. I asked my husband to check and he could feel it too (although only when my arm was raised). I was referred to the breast clinic within a week and initial tests (mammogram, ultasound and needle biopsy were inconclusive) in OctobeR and was told to return for a check up the following Jan. I wasn't convinced though as I thought the lump was getting bigger and returned in Nov when I was eventually diagnosed. All I can say is trust your instincts and if you are not happy with a result, keep pushing until you are.
Best of luck to all of those waiting for test results. X

[Philomena_b]

I have quite a large bust so have always had my bras properly fitted. At the end of January I was a wearing a low necked dress and noticed that the cup was over flowing. Like many of you , thought it was too many chocolates, then felt a lump under the nipple. I was seen within the week, and diagnosed within 2 with BC. The lump was impossible to feel lying down, so I was very lucky to notice it that day. Xx

[Mazzalou]

Thanks for quoting me Trisha, but knowing your own body is even more important for those of you too young to have mammogram screening.
We need to spread the word too as I was horrified that even the nurses on the ward I was treated in admitted that they didn't check their own breasts - and they see people like us on an all too regular basis.
We are our own best screening!

[Trisha_51]

Hi Ladies,
I too am horrified by the number of young women posting on this site. I'm definitely not a younger woman 62 next month and have two daughters, 30 and 33, and have read some of your posts through a veil of tears. I was diagnosed in Jan this year with a 8mm lump, a mixture of lobular and ductal invasive BC, had WLE , SNB - no node involvement or evidence of vascular invasion and got clear margins first time . 15 rads and now 5 years Anastrozole so I think I got off lightly compared to some of you. I didn't find a lump, my nipple looked as if it was starting to invert and a small "dip" appeared just to the right of it. My fantastic GP said she couldn't feel anything either but referred me to the Breast Clinic where they did an ultrasound after the consultant had had a good feel and obviously found something. The radiographer showed me the lump on the screen whilst she was doing the scan, I then had a mammogram and a biopsy straight away, results a week later and surgery a week after that.
I too was between routine mammograms, I'd had one in March '12 which came back as normal and I was diagnosed in Jan'13!!
As someone said earlier on this thread - Know your body and don't rely on your mammograms- they don't pick up everything!

[Carolina33]

I'm stunned and reading through the posts mouth opened like a codfish . So many young women. I swear im going to campaign for testing to start an earlier age. Why does the government not do something??

Im 33 . A month ago I found a hard lump in the shower . Right breast. I am 34E so it was pretty noticeable and in fact sticks out slightly. gP SaI'd 4cm and nothing to worry abut.

Breast clinic did a scan, nothing to worry about. It's 16mm the lump. A scan downstairs again nothing to worry. A mammogram and called back in you need another scan . Me crying 😞 3 biopsies one side of breast near my armpit. Lots of micro calsifications I was told. They didnt tell me it was cancer but in a round about way they said its serious.

5 days to wait for results now x

[Guest user]

I had the cold bug that was going around where I live in feb this year, and was coughing so hard that I was sick and just placed my hand on my right breast and felt a hard area. Upon further examination the hard area was a hard lump. Rang my gps the next morning and got into see them straight away. My gp examined me and told me he was highly suspicious that it was cancer and urgently referred me to the BCC. I had my appointment 2 weeks later, mammogram, ultra sound and biopsy and was told then and there by the consultant that I had BC. The results came back that I had invasive lobular cancer, furscans tests where carried out and they found another area of cancer itithe same breast. Had an mx on 15th April ansee results from that showed I had grade 3 and it was in my lymph nodes. Had try remaining lymph nodes removed yesterday and results back in 2 weeks And then chemo in June. There is a family history of breast cancer on my dads, I am now the fourth generation with it and so will need the gene test.

[Mazzalou]

Bump!

[Mazzalou]

I found my lump 2 years ago at the age of 59 after getting out of the bath and examining my boobs as part of my normal bathtime routine and felt a lump under my nipple that I know wasn't there even a few days earlier. Off to GP next day who sent me to the Rapid Response clinic and the rest is history.
Just for the record I was half-way between mammograms so the morale of the story is
KNOW YOUR BODY AND DON'T RELY ON YOUR MAMMOGRAMS!
Remember that a mammogram is just a snap-shot at a moment in time - just like your car's MOT doesn't mean that it won't fail you soon after.

[tors]

Thanks for carrying on adding your stories everyone. Xxx more always welcome x

[Guest user]

After Christmas I noticed that my bra was digging jnto my chest and causing a dull pain. I thought it was because I had over indulged on Ferrero Rochers during the festivities! One evening my hushand touched my breasts from behind in a playful manner and one hurt. The next morning I felt a small lump on my right breast and made an appointment at my GP who confirmed she could feel it too and referred me to the breast clinic. Two weeks later I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I start my chemo on Friday. I'm coping and determined to remain positive and keep smiling! Good luck all you ladies xx

[LadyJulie]

I am 54 years old and, like Lola65 above, my IDC was picked up via a routine NHS mammogram screening in January 2013. I was recalled for a follow up assessment where the ultrasound revealed 2 benign cysts and a 6mm lesion. It was very deep so no lump or symptoms. I had to wait 3 agonising weeks following the biopsy for the diagnosis on 18 Feb and had WLE and SNB on 28 Feb.
I'm in the waiting room again now awaiting the results of the pathology report and next stages of treatment which I was told originally by my surgeon is likely to be 3 weeks rads and 5 years Tamoxifen due to the cancer being so small and caught early. If that's the case I will be so relieved and just thank God for the routine screening programme currently in place.
Julie

[valkeh]

I felt my lump- just at the base of my left breast- as my pyjama was rolled up on a night and tried to pull it down. I had a nightmare that night that I had breast cancer... That was a Monday the week up to Christmas. I thought I will wait until after Christmas. I was due to my period too and I hoped that my breast was lumpy due to hormonal chnages. Alas. Had a lovely Christmas, period finished and the lump was still there. December 30th 2010 I had an ultrasound- it was all verious serious with songraphers then radiologists. 3.5cm tumor IDC. I felt such an idiot that I haven't noticed it earlier... Life changed since then... I was 39 years old. No family history. Healthy and active. The unwanted visitor came to my body. Unfortunately 14months after my diagonis I heard that the intrudor has visited my spine too... I fight every day. I pray to God. I am lucky to have a great Oncologist. I am lucky to have a wonderful family and friends. BC forum is including in the family 🙂

[Guest user]

Wow! So many stories on here. I never fully realised just how many people were affected by bc in their everyday life!! Apart from my grandfather having breast cancer, I've never known anybody that it has affected. Now I have a lump, I've read a lot of info on various websites about lumps and bc but each and every one say that it rarely affects people of my age (31). And the dr also said that "sinister doesn't normally hurt" but I've had replies from ladies post diagnosis that say they had pain as a symptom!! I agree that we aren't as well informed as we should be!

[Guest user]

Hi, I was 31 (2012) when I first found the lump, I noticed when lying in bed one morning that my (now ex) boob had a step in it so had a Feel and found quite a lump, slightly worried I went to GP and he said I had nothing to worry about as he thought it was what they refer to as a 'mouse'. He did check under my arm but didn't say he found anything - i had never realised that you should check under the arm - if i had i may have found this a lot quicker, I checked under the arm the next day wondering what he was feeling and found 3 lumps which ofc worried me. He referred me to the breast clinic anyway saying that was just routine, think maybe he was trying not to worry me too much. I got my appointment with in 2 weeks and had mammogram, ultrasound and biopsies to (ex) boob and (ex) lymph nodes and was told that day to expect the worst. I then spent the next extremely long week alternating between worrying and denial.

Since then have had chemo, surgery and radio and will be on Tamoxifen for at least 5 years, it's not been an easy road but I am now at the end 🙂

[Guest user]

Hi everyone,
I know this is an old post but I'm new here and thought I would share my experience so far. i have been getting pain and extreme itching in my right breast for about a week now. 2 days ago, the pain in my breast was so bad that I couldn't concentrate on anything but the pain. Very close to tears, my hubby took me to the hospital. The dr asked about symptoms, I told him that I'd had pretty bad pain, (forgot to mention the itching) but told him that I thought my breast felt firmer... He he examined me and told me he felt a lump below my nipple which threw me as my pain is specifically directly above my nipple in the areola, Ive also got a bulging vien running right though the point of pain. He said I need to ask my gp for a referral to a breast surgeon. The waiting hasn't even begun yet, as true to form, I can't get an appointment with my gp!

[coco72]

I am 40 years old. I had a small lump in left breast while breast feeding in 2006 and reassured nothing to worry about. In January 2013 I thought thelump was bigger, went to GP the next day, reassured but referred. Seen in breast clinic, reassured left breast was a benign cyst but wanted to still do mammogram and ultrasound. Had mammogram and then ultrasound, and radiologist looked at me and said left breast is no concern but surprise lesion that could not be felt was found in my right breast. Before I could cry the biopsy was done. Straight away told very likely to be cancer by radiologist and surgeon and my world came crashing down. Trying to keep in mind that if not found incidentally, it could have been a lot bigger before I found it as very deep in my breast.
GP was speechless when I saw her but thanked her for referring me.

[tabitha1969]

im 43 mother of 5,
i was in the shower and noticed my left nipple had sunk in, after spending half the night trying to coax it back out i then started to feel for a lump,, i felt thickening and a lump, i went to the doctors the next day 18/12/12, brand new newly qualified doctor, straight from doing her training at the breast clinic she refuured me and i got an appointment at the clinic for the 27thdec and got my results on the 2nd jan,, had a mx on the 25th jan then lymph node clearance on the 15th feb,, everything has gone so quick, im finding it hard to keep up ,,,,

[Lola65]

I've been reading this thread with interest. I am not a younger woman. I am 65, and since being diagnosed and finding this wonderful forum I have been in total shock at the sheer number of young women there are fighting this disease - and so many with large lumps and node/vascular involvement found at diagnosis. It really has shocked and upset me.
I count myself very lucky indeed that my lump was found on my annual routine mammogram December 2012 - I could not feel it and neither could the Consultant even though she knew where it was, and I had no symptoms. Just about to start chemo, then rads, plus Herceptin for 12 months. If I get through this journey, that routine mammogram is the reason.

[tors]

Hiya Storm, I'm so sorry you have found yourself here, you must be in real shock right now. I remember those first few days were so very hard, but I found it did get easier to get a handle on things as time moved on and treatment started. I was diagnosed in March 2010, aged 36. My GP was a fabulous support, she phoned my hospital when she learnt of my dx to ask what she could do to support me, and the whole pro rice were fabulous. It made such a difference to my cancer experience as I felt looked after, supported, listened to and safe in her hands. I never felt I was wasting their time when I phoned for reassurance. And it sounds like you have got a fabulous GP too, and this will stand you in good stead. As well as thanking her, You should also give yourself a big pat on the back for having the fortitude to go through the medical system again after the shoddy treatment first time. Well done!

There are a lot of younger ladies chatting on our Facebook network now, called Younger Breast Cancer Network (UK) and you would be very welcome to join us, find us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ManchesterYoungerWomensBreastCancerNetwork?bookmark_t=page

There are over 260 of us chatting in private, from all over the UK and at all stages of diagnosis, treatment, recovery and life after breast cancer. No worries of you don't want to at the moment (or at all!), I'm just holding the offer out to you. Take care, it gets better I promise

Vickie
Xxx

[Guest user]

Hi,
I was only given my diagnosis yesterday. I'm 33.
I noticed the lump sat on the sofa one evening. I think I must have had an itch or something. I asked my partner to have a look and he felt it too. I went to see the GP as soon as I could get an appointment and she referred me as an urgent referral.
The thing is, I had been referred to the breast clinic previously, and had seen the consultant about a month or so before I found the lump. Originally I had gone to my surgery (and saw a different GP) with pain in my breast but no lump. He examined me and couldn't feel anything, but given i have a family history he said he would refer me.
I waited WEEKS if not months to be seen. By the time my appointment arrived the pain had subsided. I told the consultant this before he started examining me and it was clear that he made his mind up then that I must be fine.
He did examine me and found nothing so sent me home. A month later I find this lump.
The GP I saw the second time around was brilliant. She assured me she was referring me urgently and that I would be seen within 2 weeks. When 2 weeks was nearly over and I hadn't heard anything I contacted the hospital directly to be told my appointment hadn't been scheduled yet and that I was looking at a minimum of 8 weeks wait. I told my GP who was appalled to hear this and proceeded to make a hundred phone calls on my behalf. In the end she referred me again to a different hospital. I was seen by them I think about 2 weeks after her referral.
I rang her this morning to tell her the news. She returned my call a couple of hours later and told me she had spoken to the hospital and already knew. I am truly grateful that she took me seriously and took the time to fight in my corner. If it hadn't been for her I would probably still be waiting for my first appointment. I told her how thankful I am because I really mean it. Who knows, she may just have saved my life?!
I do wonder if the first consultant had looked further, with an ultrasound he would have found something a month before I found the lump. I know that it's no use looking back and asking what if, but I do still wonder.

Anyway, that's my story. xx

[tors]

Thanks for updating the thread ladies. Any other younger ladies who want to add their stories, please feel free.

[Guest user]

What a fantastic idea this thread was..really shows what problems some of us have getting the refferals we need with being younger. I'm 40, type 1 diabetic, noticed a small red spot with slight thickening under the surface of the skin about 8 months ago, visited my GP after 6 weeks who told me this was nothing to be concerned about, mentioned its presence again at my 6 monthly diabetic check which was 12 weeks post spot/lump (at this point the spot had cleared and I had a pea sized lump which felt to be just under the surface of the skin) again was told it was nothing to worry about, my next visit was January this year with a chest infection, I mentioned that the lump was still present and unchanged, the GP (different one from last time) said it didnt feel like anything to be unduly worried about but she would refer me because 'sometimes these things can catch us out', I had my consultation, mammogram, ultra sound and biopsy on 17.01.13, intially even the consultant said he didnt think it was anything, however my follow up appointment diagnosed BC ER+ although my lump is (and has remained throughout) 5mm in size. I am due to have a lumpectomy next week followed by rads and possibly chemo..I work part time in accounting but my job involves alot of travelling, fortunately my employers are absolutely brilliant, I want BC to have as minimal effect on my life as possible, so I am working from home for the foreseeable future after next week.
I'm with you on that handc..here's to 2013 flying by..

[handc]

I am 46, mother of 2 young boys (aged 5 and 6), work in finance (4 days a week)....
and then I found lump in the shower.
I have never been good at checking; in fact my mum died of cervical cancer when she was only 39 and so I am always sure to have a smear, but .....
I went to GP within a few days, and by the end of the following week was at the clinic where I had a mammogram which showed shadow under arm as well. They did fine needle biopsy of lymph node immediatley and core biopsy of breast lump plus a ultrasound. I left with a clear understanding that it was probably cancer
I WAS FURIOUS
2 months later and I have had WLE x 2 (not clear margin first time). Full node clearance but only one had cancer. I have also had PET scan and MRI scan which are clear.
I start chemo next week and will also be on Herceptin as I am ER+
I am hoping that 2013 flies by....

[Downbutnotout]

Just a quick edit - I was 46 at diagnosis, so too young for screening and no family history of BC.

Hi all

Although I did check regularly I didn't find anything until one day when I suddenly found a swollen lymph node in my armpit. Next morning in the shower I felt something in my breast as I moved my hand upwards, over the skin surface, next to where the node was. My GP only touched the lymph node and didn't bother checking my breast tissue. He went through all the risk factors and said it was probably nothing serious because I scored so low. By the time I arrived home the practice receptionist was phoning me with an appointment at the fast track clinic for the following week. Doctor at the clinic said it felt like hardening of the skin in my breast and I had a mammogram, ultrasound - where the doctor mentioned an echo. She did a core biopsy of the breast tissue and lymph node and inserted a titanium wire in my breast. Realised when my results appointment was brought forward it was not likely to be good news (though deep down I realised from the tests but tried to convince myself it was probably nothing and I would be wasting everyone's time).

I had a WLE and axillary clearance. Got a bad histology report so had to have a mx a month later. Had Grade 3 IDC and DCIS, satellite tumours, 5 affected nodes - one with extra nodal extension, and one which was only found during the mx (lucky from that point otherwise it would still have been there, complete with its cancer), lympho vascular invasion, triple negative.

I was surprised the cancer got so far as it's not as if I never checked myself, which I made even more of a point of doing after a friend was diagnosed a year earlier - and she found her lump only a couple of months after getting the ok from a routine mammogram. But as with others, the lump appeared after a painful knock.

For me, I also had a stressful few years and I kept saying to people I couldn't sustain the level of stress forever.

I feel a bit like a ticking timebomb, despite the surgery, chemo and radiotherapy. It can be difficult to keep the positive mental attitude and I've found things much harder since I finished treatment and have no other backup - other than putting turmeric in all sorts of meals, eat tonnes of broccoli and other bright coloured fruit and veg. But then, I ate healthily before, I've always been very active and exercised a lot and always been slim, non smoker, drink alcohol about a glass every year or two. It's a proper bugger.

[tracyld]

Hello everyone,
I went to the GP myself. I was 47 and had noticed that my nipple had sunk slightly into my breast. I could not feel a lump but my GP could and mentioned the word tumour striaght away, so I was pretty convinced that I had Cancer. I had a referral in June 2010 and because I let the sonographer know my fears , she in turn told the Consultant who took the biopsy but did indeed confirm that it was Breast Cancer. I saw a BCN striaght away so I never had to wait much really. I had an immediate recon with a skin sparing mx in July of the same year, followed by FEC T Chemo and now I am on Tamoxifen.
I too feel that the age for mammograms should be reduced to 45 years. Could we campaign for this for the younger ones. Not sure what stage we are at with this, do the Moderators know.
Kindest Regards and love to you all. Tracy xxx

[Sika]

I felt my lump while washing in the shower. I was quite a while before I went to the GP though - mainly because I'd been to the breast clinic a few months earlier and was told I was 'too young' (35yo). That earlier appointment was about a bloody discharge from my non-cancerous breast. I was told it was fine (though they commented on the lumpiness of the breast that turned out to have cancer), but my age was given as the main reason I shouldn't worry. I felt silly for having gone which made me reluctant to go again about the lump.

worse than that - did they themselves dismiss their concerns about my lumpy breast because of my age? I had an ultrasound of both breasts. given that a few months later a 27mm lump was in the right breast, wouldnt there have been something to see back then?

[tors]

I'm bumping this up in case any newer younger forum members would like to post their stories. If we know how we found our lumps and what we all were and weren't doing, it can only help us when we are trying to raise awareness of breast cancer in young ladies.

[Guest user]

Hi everyone.
I had no lump, no symptoms at all. My breast cancer was picked up on my very first mammogram! I feel very lucky.
Routine mammograms should start at a much younger age in my opinion.
I'm 51 so I am an older lady. Yet I am pre menopausal and have 2 teenage children. I work full time and I'm a single parent. So lots of stress.
I've already had a mastectomy and reconstruction. Now undergoing chemo. Then tamoxifen for 5 years.
I'll be looking forward to my new nipple and an uplift on the other breast. ( yes we still enjoy sex after 50 )!

[Ceej]

I don't actually qualify as a younger woman at 47 at diagnosis! But i didnt feel anything at all - i was just spurred on to get tests for everything when a girl at work died very suddenly unaware she had cancer 😞 i was turned away from the mobile van twice as i wa too young andno symptoms. The age limit was reduced to 47 in November and i had my mammogram on 5th Dec and was called straight back! 2cm with 1 lymph node. The surgeon wasnt surprised as he said it was very difficult to feel and wasnt a lump just a thickening of the skin thatI definitely would have ignored! just finished radiotherapy and must admit I have no idea the best way to check myself or if i did would I feel anything !!

[smc78]

I dont think you should feel bad as like you said it could save somebody elses life. I had a bad experience with a male doctor when i was pregnant with my son. I had developed Pre Eclampsia and had suspected it due to some of the symptoms i had but when i went to see him and told him about the headaches i was having he passed it off as a simple cold. I had a urine sample with me and he didnt even ask for it. I remember as i walked out of his door thinking maybe i should ask if he wanted to test it for protein but just thought i was being silly. He was a doctor after all and knows his stuff. I had a midwife appointment 3 days later and she immediately picked up the signs and referred me to hospital. It turned out that my baby was only getting squirts of oxygen via the placenta and both he and i were in danger of losing our lives. My son was born just 3 days later on the day i was 30 weeks pregnant. I had told the midwife about my experience with the doctor and once my son came home from hospital at 7 weeks old she popped round to see us. She told me in no uncertain terms that she had 'put a rocket' up the doctor i had seen. I think he has retired now but if he was still there i would refuse to see him.
Sian x

[Queenrefusenik]

Im so glad your GP was on the ball. Ironically I went to this GP as I knew her outside of work!! I did write a complaint to the practice manager, but by the time they got round to responding I had started chemo and just needed to get through that. Now that I have finished the chemo bit and off the steroids(!) I will pursue it further, not for me but for other young women who may present with similar symptoms. Ultimately I think I was quite lucky, but I can't believe how bad I felt about chasing it up and causing a fuss.
hx

[smc78]

Queenrefusenik the way you were treated by your GP is shocking! Was there any comeback for her or perhaps further information and training? I wonder if she had been so laid back if it had been herslef or a member of her family that had a lump. The female GP i saw was brilliant. She wasnt my own GP and was quite young but she offered to refer me straight away even though she didnt think it was anything to worry about. She said it was better to be safe than sorry. A few weeks after diagnosis i went back to GP for a sicknote and she said that they dont often refer people of my age (i was 33 at the time) as it rarely turns out to be cancer. I thanked her for refering me and potentially saving my life.
Sian x

[Queenrefusenik]

I was diagnosed just over 6 months ago, aged 37, with a strongly triple positive 3cm IDC (es100%, pr 90%, her2+), i had a matectomy and have just completed TCH chemo. I am continuing herceptin until June and am due to start tamoxifen next week.
I was having a bath when I found my lump. Despite a background in cancer research (psychology) I never checked, but that day I had an overwhelming feeling that I should. I went to my GPs the following Monday, she felt the lump and told me that she was 100% sure it was just a "breast mouse" and that referring me would be "making a mockery of the process", I asked that she referred me nevertheless. I left the drs feeling reassured, but those words kept replaying in my mind. Three weeks later I still didn't have an appointment through. As I knew about the referral process from my work I thought it strange so I thought I should phone the surgery, but I kept putting it off as I didn't want to make a fuss over nothing. I phoned just before Easter and it transpired that at this point that the GP hadn't even dictated, let alone written, the referral letter. When I was finally seen in clinic it transpired that the GP had not completed any of the correct referral forms. The whole team both surgical and oncology were shocked by my GP's attitude.
I could so easily have just accepted what my GP said and still be blissfully unaware.
I cannot fault the surgical and oncology care I have received since diagnosis even though being treated by people you know can be tough and I imagine I am a nightmare patient questioning everything! However as well as raising awareness amongst thirtysomethings (which is a brilliant idea), much much more needs to be done to raise GP awareness.
hx

[Guest user]

With me you couldn't write the script. I had just completed a 10 k run for breast cancer, feeling dead chuffed with myself, and whilst having a shower found the lump at the top of my left breast. I made an appt with doc the next day where he discovered another lump under my arm. The rest they say is history.....I have just done the tests and this morning am heading out to meet the docs to discuss treatment. However he did say to me that my prompt action has probably saved my life, although life fir the next few months is going to be rubbish! I'm 37 and was convinced it was just a cyst or a lump of tissue from where I fell 6 months ago. One good thing is that all of my friends and my twin are now all more aware and are getting checked out. As I stare into the abyss however I just wish at times it wasn't so.....

[Guest user]

Hi
6 weeks before my 40th birthday (Feb 2012) I was having dinner with 11 friends and we were discussing our girls weekend away to celebrate my 40th. I noticed I had a small pimple underneath my right arm - I told my friends and they all said to visit my GP, I assumed it was a blocked hair follicle. A few days later my right arm had become painful so I got an appointment with a locum GP, somebody I had never met before.
After her initial examination of my armpit she confirmed that it was a blocked hair follicle and prescribed me antibiotics.
Whilst there she asked me if I would mind her examining my breasts, I thought this a little bit odd but thought maybe she needed the practice ! (Don't forget she was a young locum GP) . To my shock she found a small hard lump on my left breast right underneath (unconnected to the lump under my right armpit just a complete coincidence).
Anyway she referred me to The Royal Marsden in Sutton and a week later I was examined, had a mammogram and an ultrasound biopsy! Something told me that things were not looking good but the hospital said I would have to return a week later for the results. Nobody in my family had breast cancer. I did not fit any of the risk factors ( in fact I had a year earlier run a marathon for cancer research!) and so nobody believed it could be BC. I however suspected it was.
A week later they confirmed I had BC. I was operated on within 3 days and can only say my experience which regards to the medical profession has been fantastic - I do wonder how long it would have taken me to find it, as I wasn't regularly examining myself. This has been a massive wake up call to all of my friends as well. If I am honest only about 1 in 10 checked their breasts before my diagnosis.
i think there should be more advice on how to itself-examine because my lump was well hidden. I also think people think it will never happen to them. Why don't we receive a breast examination every time we go for a smear test?