Hi @JoB, welcome but sorry you've had to join us. Everything will be such a whirlwind and difficult to take in right now. That's normal. You're scared. That's normal too. As well, as overwhelmed, bewildered, pissed off, frightened and the rest. Definitely take someone to your appointments if you can, you'll only take in about a third (also normal).
My family is in NZ so yes it's hard without them around but doable. Whilst my mum was keen to come over I didn't want any 'off the plane germs' near me whilst having chemo as I'm a germophobe, OCD, nurse. ( yep, worst patient). You should get a breast care nurse and they are wonderful and have so much knowledge and compassion.
We are here for you. Xx