Just beginning

Hi Andij,

Sorry to hear your news. It's not the best of times the first few weeks, and really is a roller coaster ride.  I found this network to be invaluable to just vent, ask questions or read about other women who have had something similar.  From what I've read, everyone's breast cancer is different, with different recommendations to suit your type. 

I'm officially 4 weeks post diagnosis and 3 surgeries down.  I was offered a choice of lumpectomy or mastectomy of which I opted for the lumpectomy.  In my situation, the tumour was bigger and more irregular than was expected with unclear margins.  I still feel fortunate that I was offered the choice.  In the end I had to have a mastectomy as I really didn't have much boob to start with!  I've delayed my reconstruction because I didn't want any further complications to delay chemo (which I'll need) plus the prospect of radiation to my underarm still was a possibility.

I feel confident with the team approach, my surgeon has had review meetings and taken recommendations from pathologists, other surgeons and radiation oncologists.

Take someone with you for your appointments and write down possible questions for different scenarios.  I remember being so nervous just thinking about the general anaesthetic.

All the best for Monday.  Thinking of you and keep thinking one thing at a time.

Karen xx