Diagnosed yesterday...

Hi Cath, Welcome to the 'club' even tbough I am sorry for the reason that forced you to join us. And I am really glad that you have been able to udentify the tumor at such an early stage as at 5.6mm it is tiny and there is a very good chance they will need not do anything too invasive surgery wise.

This is a good place to be when dealing with Breast Cancer as everyone here is in rhebsamenboat and I have the forums here invaluable source od information as I navigated BC waters (I was diagnosed in Feb and still undergoing active treatment).

This part here, where you have a diganosis, but no surgery or biopsy results yet is the absolute pits and the most frustrating and nerve wrecking. 

As Autore suggested definitely ask for the Gene testing. Some are.for it, some are against it as they fear increased insurance premiums... I believe it is one thing that will help you make more informed decision when it comes to surgery and treatment and you want your girls to have a much better understansing of their family history so that as they grow up they can make the right decision about their future.

As your mum has been through this do take her along to your appointment with the surgeon. Start now to write down all questions you have regardless of big or small or even silly they may seem and make sure to take that with you to the appointment so they all get answered. Do not be affraid to ask "why do you think that is the right thing for me?" or something along the similar lines as it helps to have them explain why or why not they deem particular course of treatment is being reccomended.

If there just that single small tumor there is a good chance they will only do a lumpectomy and sentinal node removal which have quick recovery and no huge impact on your health longer term. As Autore mentioned there are many tailored Chemo regimes these days and once the surgery is behind you, the invasive bugger is out they will have biopsy results and the proper diagnosis and from there they can design the most benefitial treatment for you.

Ask the surgeon to put you in contact with the local Breast Care Nurse. They are 100% invaluable as they will help you understand exactly what is ahead of you, they will help you get ready to go home post surgery with advice on bow to look after yourself in terms of recovery, they will help you understand your diagnosis better and will be involved in your treatment from start to finish. If you ask they can even attend your appointments with you if you feel you need their support. Honestly, if there is 1 thing I would say is the most benefitial thing you can do right now it is to get in touch with your breast care nurse.

If you have not done so already, order the My Journey Kit from this site. It has some invaluable formation. And more than anything, as stresfull as it is right now, try to rest up and gather your strength and soend time with your friends any do everything and anytning that both helps you relax, cheers you up and helps you gain physical strength as you want to be at your best for when this process starts.

And as hard as it seems right now remember that there have been so many advancements in the treatment of BC lately that as scary as it is to get the diagnosis it need not be all doom and gloom. You will get through this and will have great medical teams looking after you getting you the best possible outcome.

Hugs

Jel.