The Adventure Begins

Ok I am now ready to spill about results. Was informed that no invasive cancer in the lymph node that was taken. No invasive cancer in margins (even took extra for me). BUT ……… Still need to have a masectomy because there are lots of areas that have DCIS and can no be at high risk of this now becoming invasive. This is happening next Thursday. While I've been processing this lots of random thoughts have gone through head. One is 'oh so it's good news with a twist'. Another is during discussions with friends how it's a weird concept that your own body is trying to hurt you - I stated I hated my bitches now. My mates asked 'you mean you hate us'. I said 'no I hate my breasts and especially the left one as the bitch bites'. This conversation evolved and I know have a pink tshirt with blue writing (Viking Font) with the pink ribbon and the words 'The Bitch That Bites!' Another friend on seeing the shirt and hearing about how I want a couple of tattoos said it's like your symbols of strength. So after the masectomy I will only have to take Tamoxifen. And yes it has side effects. But when thinking big picture - I have been very lucky. There will still be some more tears to go but will be stronger from this adventure.

So have two more sleeps till find out what next? The waiting is the not so fun part. What ever comes next will face it and be stronger from this experience.

Just a quick update. My friends just said I should say they are awesome as well. 'They are awesome mates'

Thanks Kerryn. Yes it's a bit daunting especially like you said I am same. Don't smoke, hardly drink alcohol and would say pretty fit and active and weird thing is that I don't feel sick. Thanks for heads up on treatment post op - I'm trying to get in head that it's more preventive for the future. Hope your mammogram is all clear and your continuing on enjoying every min. It's amazing the support from people and that really helps. Keep me updated. Nat

Good luck with your treatment. This time last year I was beginning my journey. Similar to you I had lumpectomy, then further recision and lymph nodes removed after there was a slight trace of cancer found in one node. 4 cycles of TC followed then 6 weeks of radiation. I really struggled early on in the piece. Just couldn't come to terms with CANCER, thought I was fit and healthy, didn't drink or smoke but it still chose me. Won't lie to you the 6 months of treatment was horrendous, but a year on and I did cope. Have just had my 12 month mammogram and awaiting results on Monday. Best of luck Kerryn

Hi Nat, 

Yes I am on a similar journey.  I have Early Breast cancer diagnosed in October last year.  I am triple positive so I have had 4 rounds of chemo  TCH and am currently having radiation.  There is so much to digest when you are first diagnosed and treatment happens really quickly.  I know I felt quite overwhelmed and I'm sure my family felt exactly the same way.  It is a huge thing to go through for you and your loved ones. It takes time to process everything.   Everyone has their way of coping and I'm sure you will find your own unique way to navigate through your journey.

Best of luck

Nic

 

Thanks Nic. That's very lovely of you and yes taking one day at a time is plan. Be good if my mum could do that but each to their own. Just it's lovely to have her here but also adds to the stresses. Trying to get her to use the counselling services available, which I have used and it helps. If you don't mind me asking have you also been 'fortunate' enough to be on a similar journey/adventure? Thanks heaps. Nat

Hi,  Just wanted to send you a Big Hug. A breast cancer diagnosis definitely turns your world upside down.  Not only do you have to deal with the physical aspects of treatment but also all of the emotional upheaval. It's really tough and perfectly understandable to have good and bad days.My best advice to you is to be gentle with yourself and take one day at a time. 

Best of luck,

Hugs Nic