Anxiety

Question

Hi, I have recently been diagnosed with early breast cancer and scheduled to have a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy Tuesday. Feeling like I am in a bad dream and can't wake up. Anxious about all the unknowns.

afraser · Answer

@Johann Anxiety at this time is normal. You have just been diagnosed with a life threatening disease. You are in the happy position (though it won’t feel like it for a while!) of being diagnosed early, when you have the very best chances of kicking it. Take things one day at a time. Looking too far ahead at this stage is just confusing. It may not help but life is full of unknowns - we think we have our lives planned and sorted but that’s a bit of a nice illusion. And sometimes the things we haven’t planned or anticipated can be really good. Cancer isn’t, but learning to live with the capacity to make the best of what occurs can be liberating. Deep breaths, you can do this, we all find strength we didn’t know we had. If you have family and friends to support you, let them know what you need (and what you don’t!). &nbsp;Things get clearer when you have a treatment plan and you have something constructive to focus on. Best wishes.&nbsp;

cath62 · Answer

Hi @Johann, I had early breast cancer in 2020. I had a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy. Lucky for me no cancer in lymph. Once my surgery was done I had my treatment plan. It is a relief when the surgery is done as the cancer is out then.&nbsp; I recall crying for 2 wks after diagnosis and being terrified really. But the fact is there is so much success with early breast cancer. You will be ok. Let us know how the surgery goes. Best wishes&nbsp;

june1952 · Answer

Hello @Johann.&nbsp; The ladies above have said all I would say to you right now.&nbsp; It is scary and confusing but just take it one step at a time, don't try to think ahead and don't Google as much of it won't be relevant to you and you would have scared yourself to bits.&nbsp; Have a notebook handy so you can write things down as you think of them and don't be afraid to ask questions at appointments.&nbsp; All the best for today.&nbsp; 💖

johann · Answer

Thank you all for your support and advice. Today's operation has gone well and I feel a sense of relief that this step has now been completed.&nbsp;

johann · Answer

Thank you for your advice @Afraser. 🙏&nbsp;

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