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@MrsPP - I had a double mastectomy & immediate recon on 20 Nov (DCIS grade 3 aggressive).  I've always been told I had dense breast tissue which makes finding anything abnormal in the breast difficult.  I had a mamogram in late August - it was 'all clear'. I was in the Breastscreen 'high risk' program which gives me a free MRI each year.  It was originally booked for Sept however they had to reschedule to end Oct.  Breastscreen phoned to advise MRI showed 'something' and they had me go in a few days later for a targeted u/sound.  I ended up with another mamogram & u/s on 1st Nov and was told at that appointment after the biopsies they were fairly sure I had cancer.  They double checked the August mamogram and it definitely did not show anything abnormal.  When I had the double mastectomy, everything was sent to pathology and they then discovered a second cancer in the same breast - larger than the original but it was not detected on any imaging.  I was told after surgery that my breast tissue was difficult to remove so when I have my next appointment, I'm going to ask for more detailed information on that because that really did scare me to think that imaging I had in early Nov didn't show an aggressive cancer that was picked up via pathology on the 20th Nov.  I am so sorry that your GP was so 'blase' about your diagnosis; you needed empathy and compassion from your GP - not a thoughtless statement.   I believe most 'specialists' go away on holidays from now until the first week or two of the new year which is not great for those waiting for appointments.  I was in a complete daze from when I was told there was an issue with the MRI and if I'm honest - I think I'm still in that daze, so I really do feel for you, having to wait so long.  Like I said earlier, I did have immediate reconstruction.  (I have posted in the 'choosing breast reconstruction' group)  I'd be happy to answer any questions you have on my experience

Hello all, fortunately after listening to a podcast this morning, I have found this site, thank goodness!

Due to having dense breast tissue, I believe my DCIS has been missed previously, only MPO, but with my nipple showing signs of inversion from February 2023, and sporadic nipple leakage since then, I've had mammograms and ultrasound, plus saw a specialist in April 2024 but no diagnosis, no sign of a problem, until November 24.  Ultrasound found a lump behind my nipple, however MRI has found a 7cm x 3 cm x 2 cm mass!  What was to be a small lumpectomy is now going to be a Mastectomy, and I am in shock.

I've had 4 biopsies now and all show DCIS, will have lymph nodes biopsied at time of surgery to check I'm clear, which I'm hoping for.

I was originally under Dr Chris Pyke in Brisbane but he is retiring, and has referred me to Dr Emma Clarkson, at Mater, has anyone experienced her before?

I'm not having another consultation until Jan 6th, and am feeling that I've had this diagnosis and been left to deal with it without any advice of communication, is this usual?  I suppose that's why I'm here, I am looking for support.  I've just been told I'm to lose a breast, and my GP actually said, you didn't have breasts before you were 11, you'll get used to not having them!! WTF!!  I said to her, I have had my breasts for 45 years, I'd rather keep them!  I want to scream!!

Thanks for listening, I do understand there are so many in a worse position than me, I really do.  I appreciate you being here and sharing your stories, advice and ears. Xx. Paula

Hi Paula, calling the BCNA helpline may help, just to talk to someone. Your feelings are valid, and relevant. I've learnt we all have our own story and you don't have to face this period alone. I have found the BCNA so helpful with so many resources hand, but all you need sometimes is just someone to physically talk to. It's a scary journey that's for sure, we are here for you, I'm post unilateral mastectomy myself and still dealing with the realisation of losing a breast. It takes time, be gentle with yourself. Hope this helps a bit. 

I’m very glad chemo is done! Sadly I ended up getting an infection under one of my ‘chemo nails’ and landed myself in hospital for 6 days with surgery to have the nail removed which was a real shame because I was feeling pretty good and looking forward to a week off everything before the surgery I just had😅

which is something to keep in my mind. Keep your nails short and clean and use hardner. Some people paint theirs but I wanted to be able to see if there was a problem - and even then I missed catching this one! 

During chemo I really focussed on one day at a time, walking, yoga and trying not to look too far ahead or read too much about anything to do with the cancer.  I wfh a few hours a week and was lucky to have good flexibility to do so. 

A wild trifecta but I am determined to beat this as I have a young son who depends on me. This has to be the scariest journey of my life and I’ve been through a handful.