Forum Discussion

Skar's avatar
Skar
New member
5 hours ago

lumpectomy

Hi all, I'm a 17 year old with a large breast tumour, I've had ultrasounds and a biopsy however they still don't know what exactly it is. I've got my lumpectomy surgery booked in for next week but all this waiting (and while trying to do year 12 and whatnot) has really made my thoughts spiral. All this uncertainty and the big scary surgery info booklet has been quite overwhelming and it feels like such a unique experience and somewhat isolating, especially with my young age. I think I just need some reassurance or similar experiences to keep me going till next week. thank you!!

4 Replies

  • Its very hard not knowing whats going to happen, Sorry you have to do this and grade 12 all at once.

    Seek extensions when you need them for assessments etc. Education departments have accomdations for this sort of thing in grade 12 seek help from your support and inclusion department if you havent already.

    Ive been waiting over 10 weeks now and I keep busy getting as much work done as possible at home and work, nights are the hardest part when nothing much to do.

  • Christina_BCNA's avatar
    Christina_BCNA
    Community Manager

    Hi Skar​ I’m so glad you reached out here. Feeling overwhelmed and isolated whilst going through this at any age is completely understandable, but adds an extra layer of complexity at 17 whilst you are trying to keep up with the pressures of year 12 also. Most people in our online community have felt the same way before their lumpectomies or while waiting for answers, and many say that the waiting is actually the hardest part. Once things start moving, it often feels a little more manageable.

    While we wait for others to share their insights, I wanted to share some gentle and supportive resources to refer to in the meantime;

    🌸 Online Network Young Women community group (connect with others on a similar path)

    🌸 Lumpectomy info that’s easier to digest than hospital booklets 

    We do have further information on navigating breast cancer as a young woman, however I thought better to share those with you if they end up being needed once you receive the biopsy results.

    You’re handling this with so much courage, even if it doesn’t feel like it. Please give us a call on the Helpline 1800 500 258 Mon-Fri 9-5pm when you need to chat, or request a time for us to call you here.

    Please keep in touch as you go through the next steps - we are here for you 💗

    • Skar's avatar
      Skar
      New member

      Hi Christina_BCNA​ !

      Ive sent a request through to the community group 💗

      I have gotten my biopsy results but even then they've said they don't know what it is unfortunately, which feels so mistrusting after the hospital saying that would give me answers.

      Thank you so much for your support!

      • Christina_BCNA's avatar
        Christina_BCNA
        Community Manager

        Hi Skar​ , apologies I had meant after your lumpectomy! 

        It’s completely understandable to feel mistrustful after being told the biopsy would give you clear answers and then receiving results that were inconclusive - especially when you were banking on this information to know what the next steps would look like whilst you're juggling school & exams..... It's so important to feel like you can trust your healthcare so don't feel afraid to get a second opinion if that will help ease your mind a little.  💗