Forum Discussion

brisbanestory's avatar
8 years ago

Two days ago my life changed forever

Hi everyone, just hoping to reach out and seek some advice at a time that my life feels completely out of control on two levels. 

Two days ago, my (very recent) fiance and I arrived home from our long awaited overseas holiday. We'd been scrimping and saving for this trip, and had the most fantastic time. Although exhausted and jet laggy, we were so excited to see everyone and celebrate our engagement. 

My younger sister had asked to come see me when I got home, and although not feeling too crash hot I was excited to see her.  She walked in the door and I could see something was very very wrong.  My 31 year old sister then proceeded to tell me she has been diagnosed with Stage 2 Breast Cancer.  She and the immediate family had known for about a week but she didn't want to ruin the last few days of my holiday so waited to tell me until I was home.  We have a strong family history so breast cancer is not new to us, but the last thing I ever expected was for my baby sister to have a diagnosis so early on. 

The last few days have been a really strange surreal experience.  I was so glad to be able to go to her appointment with her where they talked about a plan of action, and there is some strength in having a plan for moving forward.  My number one priority is for my sister to get healthy and well again, although she has a challenging 6 months ahead of her. 

I am going to do my best to support her through her journey but where I am feeling extra terrified is with my sisters diagnosis, alongside my mum who had breast cancer 5 years back (5 years clear woo hoo!!!! :)) all the doctors are now a lot more concerned about me and are suggesting if my sister's gene testing comes back positive, I should also get gene tested and if that comes back positive then I'll have some decisions to make. 

So I'm all messed up about my baby sister facing this battle, but then alongside that also worried about what will happen to my side of the things, and feel completely helpless as these things take time, so I just have to sit and wait... and wait... and wait.....  I just really appreciate finding this forum and appreciate any advice anyone can give. I also hope as this journey goes on, I'll be able to help others and contribute.  Much love to all xx
  • Hi there @brisbanestory - welcome to our forum but so sorry you had to find yourself here. What you will find here though is such a wealth of experience and understanding so hopefully we can help alleviate some of that anxiety you are feeling.  All of us know exactly how you're feeling - not only the sadness for your sister but the fear of a potential BC diagnosis for yourself. So, here goes.......every one of us who replies to your comments will have been in the exact same place as you! AND WE ARE STILL HERE. It's scary, it's yuck, it's confronting, confusing, and at times terrifying, but you will get through it in the way that is best for you, whatever the outcome of your testing, and or your sister's experience.

    One important lesson (amongst many) that a cancer diagnosis gives you is this: take every day as it comes, try not to get too far ahead of yourself, and savour the wonderful things about life ....meantime, we will be here to walk alongside you. xxx