I was a bit like you. Couldn't believe that this all happened so quickly. I was diagnosed back in December a week before Christmas with two lumps of two different cancers, one was Triple Negative and one was what you had. I was told I'd need a lumpectomy and then radiation therapy for six weeks. At my post op appt my surgeon informed me that both lumps were removed with clear margins and clear lymph nodes. I breathed again but just for a moment. He then told me that I had DCIS (pre-cancer) which abutted the margins which meant I still had it in my left breast and that I'd need chemo and a mastectomy afterwards. I went from a 6 week treatment plan initial to a 15 months treatment plan. It was staggering. It was like being run over by the BC truck and then it backed up and ran over me again.
I went through the chemo with ups and downs throughout and I can tell you that although it will be hard, you will draw on strengths you didn't know you had. With the support of your family and friends you will come through. There are plenty of posts here that can give you tips on how to handle the chemo etc. Listen to your medical team and take all the help that is offered to you. You need to now look after you! Take it one day at a time.
I'm now finished 4 rounds of AC and 3 rounds of Docetaxel and am now on Herceptin for another 9 months and Femara (which is for post menapausal women as Tamoxifen is for pre-menapause) for 5 possibly 10 years.
It's absolutely amazing how the Pink Ladies here all pull together with love and support. So remember we are here to support you now so ask any questions and you'll most likely find that one of us will have an answer for you.
I wish you all the very best for you treatment and future Claire.
A big hug for you from me.
Love Janey xx
