Metastatic breast cancer diagnosis

Carissa_BCNA

Original post from @Arleene copied across from the Activity section. 

Good afternoon everyone,

I had BC in 2015 and finished treatment in 2016 and did everything asked of me, in December last year I found a lump in my neck and over Christmas/New Year I underwent tests to find out in January I have MBC in my Lymph Nodes and bones luckily no organs it started rearing it's ugly head ( cancer ) about 1 and 1/2 years ago.

I am going to see my oncologist this morning I have been on oral chemotherapy tablets for 3 months so I am due for a PET Scan sometimes it gets so hard to deal with, my husband and daughter are amazing and I have a good support network but no one has to deal with the pain and anxiety for me this isn't fair. 

Thankyou

arpie

Damn! I am so sorry to hear this diagnosis @Arleene - that's a cruel set of cards you've been handed. xx  I hope the oral chemo is keeping it stable just now - not having to have the infusion would be a bonus, tho the tablets can have their own side effects too. 

How was your appt with your Onc today?   All the best for your PET scan ... I hope it shows no progression. xx.  

Have you considered joining the Metastatic Private Group?  You can raise issues & discuss them in total privacy.

Take care xx

wendy55

hello @Arleene,
my name is wendy and I have had metastatic breast cancer for 9 years, I am 66, like you I have been on oral chemo I am guessing it might me Capecitibine?yes it certainly is a blow when you find this out,as my own diagnosis was mets staight away,I can only feel for you in terms of having had early breast cancer and everything associated with that, then you get on with your life and then wham!!!your whole world is turned upside down again.
So very pleased to hear that you have amazing support with your husband and daughter, that is so important,also I hope you a group of girlfriends who support you as well,as I said I am 9 years in and we have another lady who is 15 years post diagnosis,so please dont think there is no hope because there is,medicine is changing so fast and new treatments are coming on the market all the time and as you said you dont have any organs affected by this.
Just try and take one day at a time, be gentle on yourself, and something that I have learned is that I have become a little selfish, not in a nasty way, simply that I look out for myself more, and if I feel that I am not up to doing something I dont do it, if I feel that I am unable to go out I dont  force myself. I belong to the Living With Metastatic Breast Cancer Group, its a private group where you can talk about anything you like, please join if you would like to perhaps @Mez_BCNA will do that for you.Do you have a BreastCare Nurse, if not just look up the McGrath website online and see if there is one in your area,they may not always be able to see you but they will contact by phone and even that is a lovely support.
Do take care, trust in your medical team and I hope you have a supportive GP as well.

wendy55

Julez1958

Hello @Arleene
so sorry to hear this diagnosis.
you will be in a dark space but I know there have been amazing advances in treatment and a Mets  diagnosis is not necessarily the same as it was some years ago.
there are many ladies on here with Mets who can support and guide you - agree joining the private group is worthwhile.
two tips:
1. seek support from a breast care nurse - if none is provided contact McGrath nurses.
2. If you need counselling get a referral and plan from your GP.