jasmel05
11 years agoMember
start of my journey
I was diagnosed with grade 1 tubular carcinoma on 19 August 2014 and after a hectic few weeks of testing had my lumpectomy and Sentinel node removal last Thursday. I still need to go back to the surgeon on Wednesday for my path results and to discuss the next stage of treatment but am feeling pretty good physically since the surgery. My biggest hurdle is that my mum died of breast cancer 25 years ago at age 41 and I am looking to get genetic testing for the gene and am very confused about what I should do next. On one hand I've been told radiotherapy is the best option pending the path results but given my family history (there are other family members with cancer as well) I don't know if I should go straight to bilateral mastectomy to avoid the risk of further cancers in either breast. I'm scared at the thought of such drastic measures but more scared of dying young like my mother. (I'm currently 41,)
The only reason this lump was found was because I had asked for a referral to see about genetics and consider monitoring given I'm the age my mum was when she died. I got the worst shock of my life when after some discussion the surgeon did a physical exam and found the lump and immediately did a biopsy and then further testing resulting in the diagnoses. He couldn't believe the chances of me coming in like that just at the right point to have it discovered. I have to add that I have lost 22kg over the last 6 months so my breasts feel alot different than they did before that.
I guess I want some guidance on what my best options might be as I've read so much about radiotherapy affecting chances of good reconstruction. I am hoping for some support as I'm extremely scared and confused right now.