Hi,im new to all of this,everything has just been a whirlwind,in the space of 3 month,found a lump,had tests which confirmed cancer,had right breast mastectomy and fitted with expander Thursday 19/7 home Sat 21/7 with drains.drains look clogged up to me but community nurse seemed to think they are fine and I've developed a weird sunken space in my non boob in the last few hours..sorry for the long post just a little worried,has anyone had the same experience??

I lost 17 nodes, only one was malignant. Nearly 6 years clear, so take heart!

Welcome @Susie9.Have they started expanding your expanders yet? They usually put some in at time of surgery. When only partly filled the fluid moves around a bit. So if you are laying in a certain spot. ..say on your back....the fluid will level off to sides and so when sitting up it suddenly looks flat then slowly the shape evens out. As they put in more fluid it improves. But...do speak with your breast care nurse tomorrow in case it's not that. Kath x

If it's in your lymph nodes that just means they've discovered that the cancer has spread to that point from the breast. It doesn't mean it's gone any further. I imagine they will check with some more scans. I know it's awful, the whole thing is a shitfest, but try not to cross any bridges until you come to them. As @SoldierCrab says, it'll probably alter the length and type of chemo you're on, but know that you're in one of the best places in the world to have this disease and your medical team will take very good care of you. You are going to feel such love from friends and family, you're going to deepen your knowledge of yourself, and you'll even have some crazy laughs along the way, especially if you keep hanging out here! We'll hold your hand every step of the way.Give your GP, or breastcare nurse or your surgeon a call if you have a burning question that's keeping you up, and take a big list of all your other questions to your next appointment. Waiting and wondering is the pits so never hesitate to shorten the torture for yourself by firing off an email! The best advocate for your breast cancer is you. If you struggle to ask the questions and get the answer, bring a friend or family member with you.Hang in there @Susie9. Take some deep breaths and focus on just one hour at a time. Big hug, Kate xox

Thank u all so much for the reassurance.so glad I joined this site,everyone is so supportive and it's good to know I can to talk to people going through the same thing xx

Hi @Susie9,Same here. I already knew it was in my nodes as that is where I found the original lump. Scared the bejeesus out of me thinking it was everywhere else. They took all the nodes out. There was 5 with nasties in them. So chemo and rads. Ct showed all clear for everywhere else though. I am just a couple of months short of 2 yrs since surgery. All the best lovelyxoxoxo

Happening so quickly | BCNA Online Network

14 Replies

Sister
Member
8 years ago
I can't help with the question @susie9 but can relate to the whirlwind you have found yourself in. Welcome.
Riki_BCNA
Member
8 years ago
Hello @Susie9 it can be a very overwhelming time, lots to absorb and cope with. Please don't hesitate to contact the BCNA helpline and speak to a cancer nurse for support on 1800 500 258.
primek
Member
8 years ago
Welcome @Susie9.
Have they started expanding your expanders yet? They usually put some in at time of surgery. When only partly filled the fluid moves around a bit. So if you are laying in a certain spot. ..say on your back....the fluid will level off to sides and so when sitting up it suddenly looks flat then slowly the shape evens out. As they put in more fluid it improves. But...do speak with your breast care nurse tomorrow in case it's not that. Kath x
SoldierCrab
Member
8 years ago
hi Susie9
Sorry you have need to join us. I am sure someone will be able to answer your questions soon

Below are a couple of links to help you find your way around the forum and also how to find a breast care nurse and how to order a MY journey Kit if you haven't got one yet.

It can be a whirlwind when we first get a diagnosed.... Breathe and take it one step at a time.

Navigating the online community formerly the what and how thread.

http://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/14879/navigating-the-online-community-formerly-the-what-and-how-thread

Breast Care Nurses

https://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/OurMission/OurNurses/FindANurse.aspx

My Journey Kits and other resources.

https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/

BCNA Helpline 1800 500 258

If you have any questions, concerns or require any further information or support please call 1800 500 258. BCNA’s helpline will now be open from 9am-6pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 5pm Fridays.

How to understand your pathology reports

https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/understanding-your-pathology-report/breast-pathology/breast-cancer-pathology.html
Soldiercrab

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Happening so quickly

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