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Susy's avatar
Susy
Member
12 years ago

My First Post

Hi everyone, I was diagnosed with DCIS in my right breast just before Christmas. It was a total shock (as i am sure it is to everyone)  i have no history of BC in my family. I have my girlfriend from work to thank as she "bullied" me into going for a mammogram in our lunch break - i had never given a thought to having one till i assumed i would be sent an invite when i hit 50. (I am 48) I will forever be grateful to her as i dread to think what would have happened in 2 years time. Anyway i have been to see a surgeon who has told me that i have to have a mastectomy and i would get the best reconstruction results from TRAM flap surgery. I have been left to decide whether to have a bilateral mastectomy - i have no calcifications in my left breast at the moment. I have an appointment to see the plastic surgeon on the 8th Jan, and then i assume i will have a date for surgery following that - i was told they wanted me to have the surgery before the end of Jan.

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  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    12 years ago
    Welcome to the online network.THE most amazing place as far as I am concerned:) I finished my chemo 2 weeks ago,but I definitely remember being where you are at the moment.I had a mastectomy,but decided against reconstruction.I definitely agree with the other ladies.Always take someone to appointments or write things down.As you get further along,there will be so many things to remember and questions to ask.The book that Tine66 mentioned,really is very good.Just take one day at a time,and come on here,any time that you need help or support.There is always someone here to give good advice.All the best. xoxox. Robyn
  • Tine66's avatar
    Tine66
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Susy,

    I've just hit the 3 month mark since my diagnosis (1st October to 'celebrate' Breast Cancer Awareness Month !! :-) ).  Lumpectomy followed by Radiation therapy - 7 more sessions and I'm done.

    I too have become a bit of a 'bully' in regards to getting others to get off their butts and get themselves checked.  The other thing I would perhaps suggest during any meetings with medical people is to use your smartphone (if you have one) and ask their permission to record the conversation.  That way nothing can be missed.

    I'm not sure if I'm allowed to mention other resources on this site, but the book I found invaluable was by John Boyages called 'Breast Cancer: Taking Control".  An internet search will find it for you.

    I wish you well on this journey you are now on, it is a roller-coaster (and I've always hated them!) but we live in a time when there are now so many more options available for treatment.

    Stay strong.

    x

  • Hazel_M's avatar
    Hazel_M
    Member
    12 years ago

    That's a good friend you have there, early detection is the key. I wish you well in your decision making, and it's good you have someone to go with you to appointments, my partner picked up a lot of information that I didn't even hear. Welcome to this site, the ladies have a lot of invaluable information and advice, Hope all goes well for you, 

    Hazel xx

  • adean's avatar
    adean
    Member
    12 years ago
    You sound good , I'm 17months post my diagnosis and yes I remember la la land, everyone thought I was crazy as I was so calm, I think if your confident in your team and ask lots of questions and are a bit scared you will be fine. Adean x
  • Susy's avatar
    Susy
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Adean, Yes i will ever be indebted to my friend. I have ordered the journey kit off this site so hopefully will get it in the next few days. My husband will come with me to all my consultations - you're right - you need someone to concentrate on whats going on -  i tend to float off into "la-la land" (my escape mechanism).

    Thanks for well wishes. Sue.