Newly Diagnosed

Thank you @onemargie, I just moved from the North side of Brissy to here about 1 month ago and found this lump 1 week later.  I actually have 3 children but 2 do not want anything to do with me even after letting them know about my diagnosis.  My 3rd child still lives at home and in grade 11.  So yes so use to doing things solo that it's just a way of life.  Have pre admission on tues but that is nothing.  My parents are here on the coast so they help when I ask without a problem, but I do have a problem with asking.  Thank you for all you kind words. x

Hi there Shann. Rest assured you have all of us here to chat to whenever you need too. I remember the night of my second mastectomy I was a bit bent on the meds but wide awake and I was on this forum and chatting away to some lovely lady so it was awesome. There's always someone around. It sounds like you're fierecely independent and are doing all your appointments on your own but if you ever need to chat you can PM me I live north side of brissy so not that far from you but there would also be a support group in your area too. Have you found out about the look good feel better program ?  There would definately be one on the goldy. Once you get yourself sorted take yourself along to that. It's awesome too. Theres also the my journey kit which you can get sent out it has heaps of useful stuff in it too. Hope this helps rest assured there's a light at the end of the tunnel. You don't have to do it on your own and it's ok to ask for help and support remember that. And don't beat yourself up after your surgery and put too much pressure on yourself to do everything. From my experience if people offer to help they actually want too and those who don't .... don't. I have a friend for more than 30 years that I rang to tell her about my breast cancer and I have never heard from her since. Not even a lousy text to ask how the fuck I was and then on the other hand I had people who I never thought would step up and did. I am also blessed with two awesome kids and a gorgeous husband who have been with me the whole way. Margie ❤️

@shan I'm at Worongary. My daughter-in-law is an admission nurse at Robina. She admits lots of breast cancer patients. I'm happy to give you my mobile number or email if you'd like. The Cancer Support Sisters are awesome locally. Check em out on Facebook. They have a couple of meetings and a BBQ coming up for us and our family/friends. Could take you & daughter if interested. It's a shock initially and I felt so alone. We are here. You are not alone.

Thank you @sandramj for your kind words.  I have been taking on board everyones advice and finding it very valuable.  We do not live that far away from you (if I think it's right place)  I am in Nerang.  Your kind words are very much appreciated.

@shan I had the core biopsy earlier this year and had lumpectomy and surgeon took 3 or so lymph nodes.  Surgery 1/4/17 and results after surgery were 12mm Invasive Ductal Carcinoma and one lymph node had 1.1mm tumour and another changing cells.  Saw oncologists after many tests before surgery and after and we decided on 6 weeks radiation and then hormone therapy as my cancer was Oestrogen & progesterone positive and HER2 negative. I stated on hormone therapy next day after radiation ceased.  Its great you are able to have the breast reduction at the sale time (sort of a bonus) and I have been well and go back to oncologist and breast surgeon early October for hopefully a positive result.  From my journey so far Id suggest you get involved with a support group (this online forum is fantastic) but also someone to talk to is a great help and a group to go to to feel part of is so helpful - you are NOT alone.  If not already doing it google cancer guided meditations/relaxations as these really helped me relax.  Meantime do whatever it is that makes you feel good, any time you can.  At least you have a week to so to plan and get ready physically and emotionally - You may want to get the special bras although the public system does supply a pair - but Target sell the nice post-surgery ones for $15-20.   BCNA also send one pair to clients if you ask.  Berlei sell them but they are expensive.  another thing you might try as I wish Id been aware of before hand was getting some Fauldings Essentials Vitamin E cream and rubbing into your breast and nurture your breasts before surgery.  This was the cream prescribed by radiation oncology team for healing after and if id know beforehand.  It can also help us bond with the breast and the cancer (if suits you). Meanwhile take yourself off for a manicure, massage, hairdo etc ready for surgery - do whatever you need/want to to look after you.  Hugs and sending angels of peace, courage, strength, love and healing. :-  <3

Sounds like a good plan. 

All the best Shann with the surgery and preparation for it.  Great to have some steps in place. Hugs

Hi @shann sounds like a great plan of action. Good luck with your surgery. Xx

Hi all
Went to see the surgeon on 21st and we have decided to do a lumpectomy as I would be unable to have reconstructive surgery latter down the track.  But on a positive note he is going to give me a breast reduction to both breasts so all in all not a bad outcome as I have always wanted a breast reduction just unable to afford one.  As for what treatment to follow still not sure as we don't know what sort of cancer it is or how aggressive it is until he goes in.  He will also remove some lymph nodes at the same time for testing.
Surgery is on the 3rd of October, so not a long time to prepare but I think everything is in place specially with my daughter and school.