Hello there - I'm Lisa, 49 years old from Hobart. I've just been told by the Breastscreen people that I have invasive breast cancer, 9 mm, about an hour ago. Have got an hour to kill before I see my GP and get a referral to a surgeon. I feel like I've been hit by a truck. So many decisions to sort through today and all I feel like is curling up in a ball and crying. I have no idea what to do about the surgeon -- does anyone have advice for me?

Hi Lisally, I'm at the beginning of my journey too; 2 weeks since diagnosis of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma and my surgery is scheduled for this coming Friday. The advice I have right now is One Step At a Time - don't think too far ahead. Your focus right now should be getting in to see a surgeon in the next week or so and finding out exactly what you're facing (knowledge is power BUT try not to be like me and google the hell out of everything, it will just freak you out). Today will be a blur, there'll be a myriad of emotions. Reach out to anyone and everyone in your support network (which will end up including many "strangers", like the pretty incredible women on here, and will be huge). There's no "right" way to feel. Put your head down and focus on the next step you're taking, even when I'm running (which I bloody hate) I find it so much more doable than looking to the horizon for the elusive finish line. Good luck, you will find LOTS of information, support and encouragement here. Jules x

Hi Lisally The best advice I got from a lady that I worked with that had breast cancer 7 years ago is don't get ahead of the process ....it did not make sense at the time but as soon as you are told you have cancer your mind goes crazy and all you want to know is that you will be ok and no-one can give you that assurance as there are so many tests and procedures to go through...I found my GP was good but the real answers I got from the surgeon and by the way my breast screen report was not quite right and the more information you receive the picture will get clearer there is a lot of help and information out there and it is ok to feel fragile and confused, it does get clearer...big hugs your way and i hope you get information and advice from your surgeon quickly...Elizebeth xxooxx

Hi Lisally, It is such a shock to hear you have breast cancer. It will take a while to sink in. The first few weeks whilst you are learning more about your cancer, your options, your treatment will be the hardest. I found when you start doing something it starts to get a little easier. My best advice is take someone with you when you see dr's and specialists as second set of ears is important and write down your questions so you don't forget them. You are not alone. There are a lot of us out here who know how your feeling so ask questions or link with people for support as it really helps. It will get easier as your knowledge grows and you start to feel the support of those around you, including surgeon, oncologist and nurses. Keep in touch. I'm in Smithton, so really the other end of state, but sending lots of hugs and thoughts. You will get through this. Gaylene

Hi Gaylene You have made me cry with your kind and compassionate email. Thanks so much - just knowing I'm not alone is so great. Wow I didn't expect all these replies. My doctor told me I was the third woman today diagnosed in his practice. I am obviously joining an elite group of wonderful women. Thanks so much for reaching out. Lisa

Day 1 of cancer | BCNA Online Network

23 Replies

Elizebeth
Member
12 years ago
Hi Lisally The best advice I got from a lady that I worked with that had breast cancer 7 years ago is don't get ahead of the process ....it did not make sense at the time but as soon as you are told you have cancer your mind goes crazy and all you want to know is that you will be ok and no-one can give you that assurance as there are so many tests and procedures to go through...I found my GP was good but the real answers I got from the surgeon and by the way my breast screen report was not quite right and the more information you receive the picture will get clearer there is a lot of help and information out there and it is ok to feel fragile and confused, it does get clearer...big hugs your way and i hope you get information and advice from your surgeon quickly...Elizebeth xxooxx
Jules74
Member
12 years ago
Hi Lisally,

I'm at the beginning of my journey too; 2 weeks since diagnosis of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma and my surgery is scheduled for this coming Friday.

The advice I have right now is One Step At a Time - don't think too far ahead. Your focus right now should be getting in to see a surgeon in the next week or so and finding out exactly what you're facing (knowledge is power BUT try not to be like me and google the hell out of everything, it will just freak you out).

Today will be a blur, there'll be a myriad of emotions. Reach out to anyone and everyone in your support network (which will end up including many "strangers", like the pretty incredible women on here, and will be huge). There's no "right" way to feel.

Put your head down and focus on the next step you're taking, even when I'm running (which I bloody hate) I find it so much more doable than looking to the horizon for the elusive finish line.

Good luck, you will find LOTS of information, support and encouragement here.

Jules x

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Day 1 of cancer

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