Forum Discussion

BrisKate's avatar
BrisKate
Member
10 months ago

Newly diagnosed DCIS

Hi folks - I just got my diagnosis this morning and am going through ALL of the emotions. Seeing my GP on Monday for referral to a surgeon, but this site is huge - any suggestions for where to start?

My treatment is likely to be a lumpectomy - hopefully with no radiation treatment but that’s a possibility. Unlikely to be chemo. Details are that it’s an intermediate grade ductal carcinoma in situ with focal comedonecrosis and calcifications (7mm x 4mm x 6mm). ER positive, PR positive. Both auxiliary lymph nodes normal. 

8 Replies

  • Mez_BCNA's avatar
    Mez_BCNA
    Community Manager

    Hi BrisKate​  we are sorry to hear of your diagnosis. We are glad you have found our Online Network early on for support and connection.

    While we wait for others to respond, we thought you may find the below BCNA resources helpful:

    Please feel free to contact BCNA's Helpline 1800 500 258 if we can assist further.

  • Hi BrisKate​ . There is so much information to take in &  when we hear 'you have cancer' our brains go crazy & it can be difficult to remember everything we are told. I suggest you keep a notebook handy to write down notes or questions. I was diagnosed with DCIS & had double mastectomy in Nov. I assume because you are seeing your GP for a referral you are going private? Have you decided on a surgeon? If you are unsure, theres most likely ladies from your area that would be able to recommend someone. The podcasts are a great place to start & also searching the boards for DCIS - you'll find a lot of helpful info. If there's anything specific you would like to know please ask All the best for navigating this journey

    • BrisKate's avatar
      BrisKate
      Member

      Thank you! Yes, I’m going private and my work bestie has given me the name of her surgeon, so I’m all sorted there. 🙂

  • Hi! Understandable that you are overwhelmed. Last week I underwent a wide excision for DCIS and it’s been a steep learning curve.

    Hopefully you have been referred to a McGrath Breast Nurse. I have found that extremely helpful, as my contact has been so supportive and a wealth of information. 
    So much useful reading on the BCNA website, especially the treatment options for DCIS, including the DCISionRT testing that is available. Be prepared for a number of treatment option decisions along the way. 

    • BrisKate's avatar
      BrisKate
      Member

      Thanks! How do I get referred to a McGrath Breast Nurse? I’ve heard really good things about the McGrath Foundation…

    • BrisKate's avatar
      BrisKate
      Member

      Thank you! I’ve had a look at the link and there are a couple at the Mater so I’ll look at getting in touch once I’ve seen my GP on Monday.