@elevenwishes - We are all so sorry to see you here - hopefully we'll be able to allay some of your fears & give advice & support to help you get thru it. That is terrific that they found it early - your treatment regime is the same that I had.
That is terrific that your school buddy and son are so supportive - I hope it goes OK when you tell your mum. Yep, you'll kick this BC's arse! It sounds like you may be around my age - mid-late 60s - we are a tough breed!! You can do this - just whack up any question that you may have and one of us (or the BCNA helpline) should be able to answer it for you.
Do you have your surgery date? Once you've had your actual surgery, you will be 'amazed' at how 'different' you feel, knowing the cancer is OUT! I was even amazed at how small my surgery area was & relatively unscathed ..... tho not everyone is that lucky.
Yes, it is a massive rollercoaster ride - one day you are fine, the next a screaming heap - that is allowed & expected. I think we were all in denial initially due to the shock - Why ME? I am the first in my family to be diagnosed with BC ..... then comes grief, then acceptance, then we just get on with it! You need to trust your medical team. With a bit of luck, you'll get a Breast Care Nurse as your confidant as well - to put questions to as well. After you get your pathology results (usually a week after the surgery) your surgeon will explain the results & if it may impact your follow up treatment as mentioned above.
We have some wonderful members in WA who will no doubt jump on soon as they know all the services that will be available to you. @"Annie C" @JJ70
Are you rural or do you live in Perth or a major town? If rural, you can claim 'petrol money' and there is a very subsidised accommodation available to BC patients, so you don't have to pay top tourist dollar for motels.
If anyone says they'll cook some meals up for you (or any other practical advice eg house cleaning etc) just say YES PLEASE! This will reduce your workload after surgery, as there will be a bit of pain. Make sure you take the pain meds, whether you think you'll need them or not - as once the pain comes on - it is harder to reduce it with oral meds. Better not to let it start!
Here is a thread that may help you with getting 'stuff' together for the hospital trip ...... a small cushion/pillow is top of the list to support your arm when you sleep, and the next day, to clutch to your chest as you are driven home - as every bump will hurt! Also ear plugs & eye mask!!
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/20232/hospital-bag-what-to-pack/p1HIG HUGS coming your way xxx . take care xx
