I'm 39 from Hervey Bay QLD I have just been diagnosed with Invasive Breast Cancer HER2 positive and ER positive. Looks like I've caught it early. My first appointment with surgeons is in 2 weeks. I have no information and no idea what treatment may be other then lumpectomy. Anxious and scary with so many unknowns.
@arpie Thank you, so far no mention of having to travel, but in saying that Ive only spoken with my GP. My biopsy was only positive for HER2 and Estrogen Receptor. Negative for Progesterone. I made contact with the McGrath nurse as I hadn't heard anything from anyone. she got onto it and got a surgical appointment sorted and spoke with the Director of Cancer Unit. I'm doing ok but also struggling, I am recovering from a recent hysterectomy and prolapse repair that has nerve damage. my first follow-up with the gyno has just been canceled until I don't know when. This week, I also see surgical for skin cancer. so a lot going on all at once.
Hi @Aliesha, I am so sorry to see you join our 'little club' - the club that no-one ever wants to join voluntarily. :(
It is always a scary diagnosis to receive - if you feel really stressed, have a listen to Charlotte Tottman's podcast on her own BC diagnosis/treatments - she is a well known BC Counsellor - so having been thru it herself, knows it 'first hand'. She is easy to listen to. http://www.drcharlottetottman.com.au/my-podcast.html
You can also ring our Helpline too, for a confidential chat: 1800 500 258
Take plenty of deep breaths and stay away from Dr Google - as it will only muck with your brain xx. Only listen to your medical team, your Breast Care Nurse (when you are given one) and us ... as we've 'been there, done that'.
I hope we'll be able to answer some of your questions and make your 'journey' a bit smoother. If you print off this sheet below - it gives you an idea of some questions that you may like to put to your surgeon and your Medical Team as you learn what your options are. I'd suggest you record your early meetings on your phone, as it is very difficult to remember everything that is discussed.
Also ask if your appointments, treatment and surgery is covered with 'no gap' - if there is a gap - ask for a quote.
Living in Hervey Bay - you may need to travel some distances to your appointments, surgery and ongoing treatments ..... living 'regionally' - you should qualify for subsidies on both fuel and accommodation. The PATS fact sheet at the bottom of this post, will show you how to contact the Qld Patient Travel Scheme. We also have a private group for those living in Regional, Rural and Remote areas, where we share info as it comes to hand. You can join it here: https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/group/28-living-in-regional-rural-and-remote-areas
I am guessing that your Progesterone may also be 'positive'? ... In which case, you may like to join the Private Group for those members with Triple Positive BC. It is a dedicated area where you can read the others' stories and pose more direct questions to them, in total privacy. They are a great bunch of ladies. Just go here & click 'join': https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/group/31-triple-positive-breast-cancer-tpbc
Take care, look after yourself & keep busy in between now & seeing your surgeon xx Wishing you all the best.
