New to this and it is hitting me that it is a waiting game.

Hi LisaJHM, welcome to this group where you will find amazing support.
What you’re feeling is normal, the frustration,also emotions that are attached with that.
We are all here for you to help and guide you through this new door that has opened up.
I was recently diagnosed in late October with a triple negative breast cancer, so different to yours but the emotions are the same.
Ask away any questions and people on this forum will respond.
One day at a time, I found meditation helpful for me, and talking to people that understand what you are feeling and going through.
Sending Cyber hugs your way ❤️

hi LisaJHM

Below are a couple of links to help you find your way around the forum and also how to find a breast care nurse and how to order a MY journey Kit if you haven't got one yet. 

It can be a whirlwind when we first get a diagnosed.... Breathe and take it one step at a time. 

How to post on the main forum – use this link to get to the main forum and begin a new post. https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/post/discussion

 

Navigating the online community formerly the what and how thread.

http://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/14879/navigating-the-online-community-formerly-the-what-and-how-thread

Breast Care Nurses

https://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/OurMission/OurNurses/FindANurse.aspx 

My Journey online tool and other resources. 

My Journey Online Tool resources
https://myjourney.org.au/hp/step5

https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/

BCNA Helpline 1800 500 258

If you have any questions, concerns or require any further information or support please call 1800 500 258. BCNA’s helpline will now be open from 9am-6pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 5pm Fridays.  

 

How to understand your pathology reports

https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/understanding-your-pathology-report/breast-pathology/breast-cancer-pathology.html

I see the other ladies have been supportive as per usual. If you have any questions please ask away nothing is silly or stupid in here, it is a steep learning curve when we first get diagnosed. 

We all get your frustration and the helpless feeling of waiting for an appointment. It was 3 years ago yesterday I found my lump and had a biopsy 3 days later. I didnt get my results until the  28th, meanwhile attending a funeral and supporting family members through Xmas whilst  I stayed awake terrified at night of my future. I'm glad you've seen the surgeon and fabulous you are having the scan and clip tomorrow. All these  things lead you closer to your chemo being able to start. Have you a breast care nurse or cancer care coordinator at the hospital of treatment? They might be able to help.
Meanwhile have a look at some headgear online for when you lose your hair.  Maybe book a dental appointment for a good clean...all reduces risks pre chemo and will help keep you busy. Find out if there is a local wig bank.
The hardest part of this journey is accepting that we are not in control of many aspects and we just have to deal with each thing as it comes up. Kath x

thanks so much for understanding and for the support. I'm so grateful to have found this community. 

@LisaJHM We all understand your frustration and anger. As @AllyJay  said, this will become your safe place.

Few things are worse than uncertainty and waiting - for results, for appointments, etc. Unfortunately you'll face a lot of that. And this time of year is worse than other times because of the "festive" days off getting in the way. I was diagnosed 30 Nov last year so suffered the festive interruptions.

Friends and family are well-meaning but unless they've been where you are, they don't really appreciate what you're going through. But in any case - let them love you and help you - especially if they can deliver prepared meals! Make your own choices about your priorities.

Think about what gives you most pleasure in life, that you might be able to use as a distraction on difficult days. 

Once you've started chemo, you're likely to develop a predictable pattern of how you respond after each treatment. Work around that pattern. to make the most of good days. Don't ever hesitate to call the oncology nurse with questions in between treatments. Be kind to yourself.

Hugs, Fran

Welcome @LisaJHM I can't give you much insight into the process you're going through as I had surgery first, then chemo and rads, but I do hear that it is can be very effective.  As @allyjay says, chemo is heavy duty stuff so there needs to be some baseline measures taken.  You would also be fluffing about with tests if you were doing surgery first.  Just try to take it one day at a time and breathe.  You will get there.

Hi there @LisaJHM...I'm so sorry you've had to join our club that nobody would want to. Unfortunately, "Hurry up and Wait" might become your new catchphrase when it comes to this particular shitfest that is breast cancer.  Before chemo starts, you will have a number of various tests in order to establish a baseline. Bloods, scans, this that and the other, so the doctors know what your starting position is. Chemo is strong, potent stuff, and in order for it to wipe out the "baddies", unfortunately the "goodies" get caught in the crossfire, so a very close eye will be kept on you. Before surgery too, they will want to know exactly what, how big and exactly where the bastard is. More tests...more anxious waiting. We here understand...we've been there and know your worry and stress. This site will become your safe place with all the support you need as you go through your different stages of treatment. We have your back. Biggest (((hug)))...Ally.