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LeonieV's avatar
LeonieV
Member
12 years ago

Just diagnosed - feeling very lost

Hello, I've never done an online blog before - so I hope I don't stuff it up! I've just been diagnosed with grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma in my right breast (with postive lymph node).  Its a triple negative cancer.  I'm quite overwhelmed and trying to fgiure out what path to choose and medical teams and surgeons and reconstructive surgeons!  I was confirmed BRCA1 gene mutation a couple of years ago.  I thought I'd have more time.  I live in Perth (but I'm from QLD).  I'd love to hear from people about how to move forward. 

I'm single, and haven't had children (neither by active choice - life just turned out that way unfortunately).

I'm working on staying really positve - but am struggling a little bit. Thank you!

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  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    12 years ago
    Welcome to the online network.This is the place to come for support and advice on getting through your BC journey,from ladies that have gone before you.It is an amazing place,so try to make sure that you use it:) Firstly,remember that these days,BC in it's many forms,is very treatable,and most ladies go on to,lead long,healthy lives.And also chemo,radiation etc,is much more refined than it was years ago,and many ladies,even work through their treatment.I would advise you ,in the beginning,to be totally guided by your medical team,and only take it one day at a time.It is so easy to think ahead,and it doesn't achieve anything.Easier said than done though,but this is where this network is so great at supporting you:) There are many resources available,and the best ones are from the reputable places like BCNA and CANCER COUNCIL.Beware of all the rubbish out there on the internet.I want to tell you that there is an end to having BC,and once you get started on your treatment,you will begin to feel a lot more in control.The beginning is always the very hardest,because there is so much waiting,and getting tests done etc. Take care,and I'm sending you a big cyber hug.xoxRobyn
  • KerrynMacdonald's avatar
    KerrynMacdonald
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hey Leonie,

    I'm so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Completely understand your feeling of being overwhelmed, there's a lot of information coming at you from all sides, particularly in the early stages. Strongly recommend taking a notepad to all your appointments as it's way too hard to remember everything they tell you! Take your time talking to different health care professionals, get second or third opinions if you feel you want them! And remember, there's no right or wrong decision, just the one that's right for you!

    I'm also a young (27), single, childless lady in Perth - so you aren't alone! If you want any recommendations on Perth doctors or fertility treatment feel free to send me a private message :) There's lots of women on here that will be invaluable resources to you.

    Take it one day at a time. Keep staying positive :)

    All the best,
    Kerryn