All the tests to update new diagnosis

One thing at a time is a very practical and sensible approach. Remember that hormone blockers are recommended but not forced on you, if the side effects are too difficult you can stop. There is insufficient research on whether shorter periods of hormone blocker medication has some benefit- even after five years I could not find any research that said seven years (for example) was better than five if not as good as ten years. Side effects vary immensely - joint pain and aches are quite common and I had none at all. Other side effects may vary with age or your own health levels. One of the better side effects of bc is trying things you never thought you would - same applies to hormone blockers. Good luck and best wishes. 

@Afraser thank you for your encouragement. I must admit, the hormone blockers (tamoxifen in my case) are really worrying me.

I have a few months before I have to go there and I know I’ve managed everything so far - but these seem to be causing me such concern. 

Early advice and checking is important for lymphoedema - sometimes it’s short term if addressed quickly. I’ve done the full ten years on hormone blockers, glad to have stopped but glad I did it too. Take heart, this is all
doable. 

@arpie thank you so much for your encouragement and advice - so gratefully received. 

Great to hear the margins are clear @Nicky123 and all the best for your appt with your surgeon, he will then refer you on to the Rad Onc, as well as the Medical Onc re the ongoing treatment, and possibly a lymphodema specialist too, so you are aware of the exercises to do to hopefully prevent lymphodema 

take care & all the best - let us know how you go .... make haste slowly - but get back (as you are able) to doing things that you love doing, to keep yourself active & engaged, both mentally & physically xx

An update today - after not getting clear margins on one side (30/3), I had some genetic testing (negative) to decide mastectomy or re-excision. 
I had the second surgery last Friday and found out today - margins clear.
13/7 meeting with my surgeon to discuss next steps - radiotherapy and removal of mirena. I know hormone blockers are pending and can’t wrap my head around that yet. 

Thank you for sharing more of your experiences @FLClover - it’s really helpful. X 🌸

@Nicky123 it is, thank you 🐣☺️🥰. I did the same genetic testing and it came back negative, which was a relief, but I’d already had the double mastectomy. And then radiation on top of that as well 😄. But mine were different circumstances, so you shouldn’t need all that. Either way, you will know the right thing to do if you are calm and confident. Enjoy the rest of your weekend ♥️.

Thank you @FLClover - I’ve had some lovely downtime and also some some research on here to consider next steps. Over the initial shock of last Thursday and have some questions - but will wait for the results of the genetic testing and then go from there. 

Those are good results @Nicky123, considering. You do have decisions to make, but for the time being focus on enjoying the Easter holiday as you said, and resting from the surgery. The right answer will come to you at the right time ♥️.