Newly Diagnosed

Irms​ I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis. 

Mine was in September and the first weeks felt like I'd been put on a dark train with the curtains drawn and I didn't know where it was headed. I had to trust the people working the train knew what to do and where to go.  Little by little the curtains opened so I could see the world, announcements occurred to let me know what stations were up ahead, sometimes the train slowed to a crawl, sometimes it sped up, but the journey has been steady. 

My diagnosis was invasive breast carcinoma: ER+ PR+ HER2-, grade 1, 10mm. 

If you haven't already, start jotting down any questions you have for your surgeon. My list was ridiculously long but he dealt with all of them with kindness including "Are you the person who's actually going to operate on me?" which I asked halfway through the appointment. 

I'd also recommend taking someone to the appointment to provide a second set of ears and support.

If you haven't already been referred to a McGrath Breast Care Nurse, you could search for one on the McGrath Foundation website, or ask your surgeon. My surgeon gave me a card for a Breast Care Nurse so I contacted her. She provided a lot of information about surgery, recovery, and helped sort out appointments.

In the lead up to surgery I reached out to a few people I knew who had been through breast cancer treatment and they shared information that steadied my nerves. I also read a lot of information on BCNA and here on the forums - if you do, remind yourself that there are a huge variety of experiences so be wary of getting lost in the details when you're only just starting to find out more about the specific treatment that you will receive.

I had to stop myself getting too far ahead of myself and take things one step at a time. 

If specific questions come up, the people on these forums are amazing. I've learnt a lot.

Resolving to stay positive is a beautiful approach. 

I wish you all the best with your appointment and upcoming treatment.