Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Hi Christel:  Sorry about your diagnosis.  I was diagnosed with Stage 2b, TNBC in October 2015.  I am 49 and currently waiting for the results of my genetic testing.  I don't have a family history but my Surgeon referred us for genetic testing because of the Triple Negative result.  I am on the old side so it is unlikely, as a matter of fact QLD health would not cover the tests as my risk was too low (no family history and over 40).  We decided to self fund and proceed with testing based largely on what the result would mean for our ten year old daughter.  

I can relate to how you are feeling about your daughter.  One of the first things I said was how much I hate to have given her this terrible family history with or without the BRCA gene. 

That being said about the bad we may/may have not given our girls, let me tell you the positive I believe I have given my girl as a result of this diagnosis.  I am teaching her strength and perseverance everyday!  I am partially through my chemo, I have seven weekly sessions to go (I am having neoadjuvant chemo and will have surgery followed by radiation when the chemo is complete) and my daughter has been a wonderful help; much more than my teenage boys....  She is so very mature and our relationship is better than ever.  She is a little older than your daughter but you will find a way to comfort her and you'll be surprised how much she can comfort you!  She has learned lessons about superficial things (like hair) and important things (like health).  She is very protective of me and can't stand it when anyone is insensitive.  While I might lament giving her this family history (and I often do) I also realize this is part of her journey too.  She has a mother with cancer and my goal is for her to look back on this time and feel like she is proud of how she handled herself through my treatment.  I know I am already proud of her.  

I hope that helps you in some small way!  Good luck getting your testing completed and treatment plan sorted (I found that is when I was best able to wrap my brain around this mess).

Cheers,

Yvette