Fear of the unknown

Dear Collette​ 

That's a pretty rational feeling - you've got through the surgery but now feel really concerned about what's next. You're not being an ostrich, just honest. Everyone who has been diagnosed with cancer probably has had at least one, if not a lot more, profound wish that it would all go away. And there is an outside chance that's what will happen. No problem with nodes, no problem with margins! But your medical team wants to try and give you the best chance of never having to face this again. So if they have any doubts, or if there are still some lingering problems, they are going to suggest further treatment. 

That will vary. So will your physical and emotional reactions to those treatments. It's worth remembering that your experience may be entirely different from that of others having apparently the same treatment. Cancer isn't one thing - and treatments vary too, especially in how people react. Make a list of things you want to ask at your appointment, or take a trusted friend or relative with you to do this. Just as with the BCNA, there are no silly questions. Anything you don't know and/or want to know is worth an answer. If your follow up is with your surgeon, ask about a referral to an oncologist, whch is the next step if there is further treatment. It helps to be active in your treatment - your medical team know about how to treat your body, but you know about treating your mind. A good counsellor, even for a short time, can be really helpful in settling your anxiety and planning ahead. Your GP can assist with a referral. 

Best wishes for your next appointment.

I’m only recently diagnosed and my surgery is next week. 
Just wanted to comment to say that I totally understand what you are feeling. 
the other members who are further down the path are such good support. 🌸 just keep leaning on us 💝

Knowledge and support  are wonderful tools they  helped me to gain understanding and eases some of my anxiety levels and, though l am just at the start on this road l feel l  have found a place l can be me and be open about myself and concerns as l go along. thank you ❤️ All the best on your Journey ahead xx

So sorry to see you joining us here Collette​   Getting a BC diagnosis really mucks with your brain even more than your body, I reckon xx   Feeling anxious (even angry!) is totally normal - but If you get sad/frustrated with anything - give the Help team a call on 1800 500 258 (Mon-Fri 9-5) for a confidential chat. 

Also, consider listening to Charlotte Tottman's podcasts.  She is a Breast Cancer Onco-Psychologist who was diagnosed 5+ years ago and has 'lived experience' of what we've all gone thru - she had double mastectomy, choosing to remain flat.  Her reaction to her own diagnosis (and ongoing treatment) was markedly different to what she'd been advising her clients over the years!  She had the same fears & confusion with 'the process' and is well worth listening to! 
She is very easy to listen to.  She has 2 x 'seasons' ... this is the first from the first series.
https://soundcloud.com/bcna/what-you-dont-know-until-you-do-with-dr-charlotte-tottman-episode-1-d-day-diagnosis-shock

Also, check out this post - as there is a LOT of info in it about the general forum.  We chat about our gardens, our sports, art & craft & many other topics xx  Jump onto any thread that might interest you!  :) 
A big welcome to all New Online Network Members ..... | BCNA Online Network

Try not to get ahead of yourself with the 'what ifs' (particularly whilst you are waiting for your results) ... as they just may never happen!   And please STAY AWAY from Dr Google too!!  So much of the stuff on there is not relevant to your own diagnosis & may be years out of date!!  Trust your Medical team and your Breast Care Nurse for your immediate, reliable information (or us, as we have a 'lived experience' of it all !!)

Definitely take a trusted friend or family member with you to all your early appointments - and also consider recording your appointments - so that you can go over it again later on, as it is almost impossible to remember everything that is said at the time xx

In the mean time, keep yourself as busy as you can, doing things you love doing (being mindful of any physical restrictions of your recovery from your surgery) is one way of stopping the brain from going off on wild tangents!  xx. 

Take care & all the best for your recovery & results xx