Breast Cancer
Hello, Ladies and Gentlemen. I suppose we all agree that cancer can take your life over. It started for me in April 23. when I found a lump. I didn't rush to my GP when maybe I should have. I had a cyst before and hoped that this was another one. I was wrong, it was Lobular cancer and I had a Mastectomy on June 15, plus 3 lumpectomy's on the other breast. Now I am waiting for Radiotherapy and wondering about the side effects of that. How long more before I can feel normal again?
Comments
Hi Rebecca365
It means that they suspect something but it won't necessarily mean that it's Breast Cancer. When I had my first ever mammogram I got recalled because they saw something in my right breast and it turned out to be nothing to worry about. But even if it does turn to to be breast cancer it's very treatable.
Best of luck with your ultrasound and hopefully it will turn out to be just a cyst.
Best wishes
Jenni53
Hello Tessa,
I feel a little uncomfortable answering, as all I can give is my own experience - which dates back 10 years, but will be renewed before year-end (same cancer in other breast, lumpectomy + 2 lymph nodes removal 3 weeks ago). Also, I am no expert. But 10 years ago, I found exchanging here was quite helpful in putting context on forthcoming treatment for me. So here it goes.
My first radiotherapy 10 years ago was 5 weeks, and all told, went quite well. By that I mean, I did not experience burning of my skin, though my under arm scar melted like candle wax, to my horror (you can barely see it now)... I worked right through, but found that my concentration was shot by 4pm, and I was in bed by 9pm each night. Tired enough, but overall manageable. Also, I am quite fit, so kept running and/or walking through the entire thing, and made a quick recovery to "normal" after radiotherapy (I was lucky not to need chemo).
This time around, I'm told I'll only have 3 weeks worth of radiotherapy (still awaiting oncotype results to know re. chemo), and that the methods used in radiotherapy have changed to be less severe.
Every woman seems to fare differently re. skin impact, but it does not have to be dreadful, and hopefully you will find it reasonably manageable.
Good luck on this weird, life-altering journey, and stay positive!
XX Catherine
Hi Tessa,
Sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I hope you will get well soon, I'm sure you are on your way. I can't answer your question as I have just had a mammogram. I'm wondering can you help me with my question though? I had a mammogram two weeks ago and I was told, the hospital, St James, will be in touch as soon as they arrange an appointment for my ultrasound. Do you know if this is the normal procedure or does it mean they suspect something other than a cyst?
I'm going up the walls with worry.
Thank you.