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Lala's avatar
Lala
Member
13 years ago

My story

After having clear scans in Nov 2012 and a clear breast check by a Dr on Gynae ward of  local public hospital in Feb, I found a largish lump in my right breast in April.

Was diagnosed with Grade 3 IDC on 24/4/13. Had surgery to remove a 5+cm tumour on 9/5/13. The breast was preserved. Not sure if that's a good thing or not as I am having issues with swelling. After all pathology came back, I recieved the news that the lymph nodes were clear, clear margins had been taken all around the tumour, and that it was a triple Neg cancer. tougher to treat but overall, a good result.

However, during a consult with the oncologist, she noticed a lump on my collarbone. Subsequent scans showed 3 hot spots - sternum, rib under tumour and sternoclavicular joint, where there is a largish mass. Chemo was subsequently brought forward by 3 weeks and I have undergone my first TAC infusions last week, 29/5/13.

This has all happened so quickly. A month from diagnosis to first chemo. The metastases in the bones have really thrown me. I have a consult with oncolgy team again today to discuss changes to proposed 6 cycle of TAC, knowing I have spread of cancer.

Would love to hear others experiences as it feels like a very lonely journey atm. I am 45 yo, single and have one daughter who lives interstate. I have some incredibly supportive friends close by and family a few hours away. I am not working due to suffering a chronic neurological condition - Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension -  for past few years.  That in itself is a challenge to manage. I don't do things by halves!!!  ;)

chemotherapy
metastases

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  • Mich_x's avatar
    Mich_x
    Member
    13 years ago

    Hello Lala

    Lovely to meet you but I am truly sorry you have to be here.  You have come to the best place for some love and support and advice when needed.

    Have you been in contact with BCNA to receive your Hopes and Hurdles pack.  You can order it online thru resources at the bottom of the page or phone BCNA direct.  I know I harp on these resources but I think everyone who has used them have found them invaluable.  Plus there is so much information in them.

    It does sound like you are pretty much on your own.  Which state do you live in?  I am in Perth.  There are so many supportive groups out there in all different areas that will assist you or support you if you need.  I am so glad you do have very supportive friends and some family near by.  We are here to chat with you whenever you need.  You can use the Search mode at the top of the page and type in what you are looking for and posts from other girls relating to that will come up.  There is a great post called what has helped you through your journey.  I do know there are different groups on the network of BCNA which relate to different forms of cancer.  You can always contact BCNA by phone and the girls there will be more than willing to point you in the right direction.  They are not there for medical advice but will definitely be able to assist you with any support you need.

    Sounds like you have been doing it tough already with your other illness but I am sure it has made you stronger and hopefully that will help you fight this latest setback for you.  It is good that it has all happened so quickly so you didn't have the time to worry over it all but I am sure it was a huge shock for you to get the latest diagnosis.  

    I am unable to say the words to show you that you are not alone and that we will support you in any way we can.  We are here for you.  You have touched my heart.

    I am thinking of you, lots of love always, Mich xoxoxo