Just diagnosed stage 1 - feeling scared

I also just want to add some of my own wisdom .. and maybe I will see this differently as I am now at the end of treatment as apposed to beginning it, but it has given me time to reflect and see things a little differently to how you probably see them. 

This diagnosis, although it feels like it now, is NOT a "kick me while I am down".

I was halfway through chemotherapy when my partner decided to get lawyers involved in a separation ...can you believe that? ... while I was so unwell that is what he did.  I lost my family.  I lost my home.  I lost friends.  I had cancer.  I lost my job.  I didn't think it could get much worse.  In spite of everything, I found so many positives.  I found an inner strength I never knew I had.  I took a deep breath, one foot in front of the other and walked the path given to me.  It was rough but at the same time, and you will not see this yet :)  .. and this will probably sound odd, it has been a rewarding experience in some respects.  I have had an experience like no other and have reassessed my life like I would never had done previously. 

There is a silver lining to everything in our world, sometimes it just looks black but if you look closely you will see the silver peaking through.   Welcome to the club, even though none of use wanted to be members.  I hope that you will try and find the positives in your world, they are there, they may be small and you will probably need to look hard but they will be there!

I know you will find an inner strength that will pick you up and keep you moving forward to better days xx

Welcome. The waiting is the hardest part and we all understand that feeling of anxiety and what ifs ....going through your head constantly. I urge you to contact close family and friends abd take people with you to your appointments . ..it's hard to take it all in. Write down questions. Have you ordered the My journey kit from this site yet?...fabulous resources and it comes in a few days. Hopefully you'll  be put in touch with a breast care nurse at your appointment . .if not ...ask to. They are a great source of information and support. I was always emailing questions for a while  pre and post surgery. It's  hard telling the people we love, but such a relief when you do.
Take care. Kath x

Hi @Tweezer, sorry to hear of your diagnosis. There are some lovely supportive women here who understand what you are going through and can offer support and guidance along your journey. I understand that you are scared at the moment, I too was terrified when I was initially diagnosed but as I learnt more about my specific situation and what treatment options were available, I didn't feel as scared anymore. There are lots of treatment options available these days and a lot of women have successful outcomes. Good luck with your journey xxx

Hi Tweezer,

I am so glad you have found this group! 

A breast cancer diagnosis is really scary and the start to a very emotional journey.  I just wanted to say hello and let you know that you are now with a group of really caring ladies who are a wealth of information to help you on your journey.  It's really comforting to talk to others who are going through what you are.  Take one day at a time, one appointment at a time and one piece of chocolate at a time :) .  From what you have already been through, it sounds like you have an inner strength that will help you on this journey. 
Sending love and support your way.
Susie xx

Hi Tweezer, Sorry about your diagnosis but glad that you've joined the network. Welcome!! Sounds like you have been through a whole lot in a very short space of time.  I too was by myself when I found out.  Have you been referred to a surgeon yet? When you have you will find out your time frame for surgery, what other tests are necessary, discussions on whether to have a lumpectomy or mastectomy. If you went through breast screen I'm assuming they signed you up for this network - did they order a My Journey Kit for you?? It's full of information and very helpful. As for your mum, no one can tell you whether to ask for her assistance or not, but for me when I came out of surgery my mum, older sister, brother and niece arrived not long after I was returned to the ward and it was beautiful to have their support and see them. Please don't be afraid to ask questions as everyone here has experience and are all very sharing to try and help others through. The waiting is one of the hardest things but you have already shown your strength. You will get through this and we are here to help. Wishing you all the best. Xx Cath