Breast Cancer

[rolypoly]

Hi I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer recently and went through lumpectomy last week. Would be nice to meet with other people going through similar experiences.

[Bec64]

Hi Rolypoly I had similar surgery 4 weeks ago and finally have appointments with oncologist and radiation oncologist next week. Its been traumatic being advised that it was a grade 3 tumour just because of its rapid growth then to have to wait a month to find out if I need chemo as well as the usual radiotherapy post lumpectomy. My tumor was picked up on my annual screen mammogram etc which I have had since I was 28 (10 yrs before my mums age at her mastecomy). Were your lymph nodes negative?

[#3]

Hi Bec I had my lumpectomy and node biopsy around the same time as you 3 weeks now. I picked up mine with self examination. I was lucky - dont know what made me check but I did and to my horror I could feel a lump. The next couple of weeks was tests and more tests leading to surgery. I am seeing the oncologist next week. One of my lymph nodes was positive. The waiting and not knowing part is hard, I agree. I thought I would use this time to prepare myself for the treatment - slow down and concentrate on my health. Doesnt necessarily happen though with kids around.

[kimmyowen]

I also found a lump in my right breast. Underwent mammogram then ultrasound and biopsy all on the day I visited the specialist, he told me it was cancer and that I would need surgery. I chose lumpectomy which was done in March 2012, I was told the tissue was clear as were the lymph nodes but that it was HER2 positive and would need chemo and then radiation. I have completed the chemo which was very difficult and now have 2 weeks of radiation to go. I will still need hercepton which is an IV medication until next June. I hope it will then be all over.

[Bec64]

What was the worst thing for you about chemo?This is week one for me and I am uncertain how I can get through the remaining 11 weeks?

[kimmyowen]

Hello Bec The worst thing about my chemo was losing my hair. I initially undertook the lumpectomy because I did not want to have chemo. I had chemo treatment every 3 weeks for a total of 6 treatments. The first one was the worst, not knowing what to expect given all the possible side effects they tell you about. I had diarrohea for 4 days and slight nausea, lost my sense of taste, everything tasted like metal. I got infection in all of my fingernails however they did not drop off. I lost my hair after the 1st week of the 2nd treatment. It is now starting to grow back. After the initial shock of losing my hair it was not as bad as I thought that I would feel. I got a wig and have a couple of hats that I wear. My husband was very supportive, he took over all of the household duties as well as working fulltime. I could not have got through it without him. You will get through it although I wont deny it is tough. It physically and mentally drains you. Take it easy, let people do things for you when they offer. Are you still working? How often do you have to have your chemo treatment Which country are you from? I have sent you a friend request, I would also be happy to be friends with you on facebook if you have an account, just let me know. Kind regards kim

[racha]

Hi Ladies I had my lumpectomy in oct and am now facing the dilema of whether to have chemo or not along with radiation and hormone therapy. mine was hormone +ve. One of my lymph node had micro metastases. Going for a second opinion about chemo.

[Bec64]

Hi Kim Nice to hear from you. I am a bit slack with this social media bit... avoid facebook, switch my mobile off and ignore telephone calls when I can. I live in Newcastle, Australia, how about you?? I am pleased your husband is so supportive. I have a partner and 23 yr old step son at home - both are supportive in their own way. I work full time as a Registered Nurse, though am finding that difficult during chemo. It is now day 9 post the first dose and I have done 3 shifts. Plan to work more next week when the 'Nadar period" is over. Hey, what is that, a time for profound spiritual awakening day 10-14 when you need to avoid people?? Not sure about that. How are you feeling now all the treatment is nearlly over?? Bec

[kimmyowen]

Hi Bec It is a small world isn't it. I also live in Newcastle Australia, New Lambton. I was a bit emotional finishing my last radiation treatment 2 days ago, the people at the Mater Hospital in radiation oncology are a fantastic group of people. Always greeted with a smile, treated you like family. I still have 7 months of IV medication to go every 3 weeks and ongoing medication for about 5 years. I have a close friend at work that has also been my rock since this ordeal started, she is a nurse also but is working as an injury manager in workers comp. I dont what I would have done without her. She has been my own private breast care nurse. Who is your surgeon? My surgeon was Dr Clark at Gateshead. My oncologist is Dr Janine Lombard and my radiation specialist is Dr P O'Brien. Kim

[kimmyowen]

Hi Bec It is a small world isn't it. I also live in Newcastle Australia, New Lambton. I was a bit emotional finishing my last radiation treatment 2 days ago, the people at the Mater Hospital in radiation oncology are a fantastic group of people. Always greeted with a smile, treated you like family. I still have 7 months of IV medication to go every 3 weeks and ongoing medication for about 5 years. I have a close friend at work that has also been my rock since this ordeal started, she is a nurse also but is working as an injury manager in workers comp. I dont what I would have done without her. She has been my own private breast care nurse. Who is your surgeon? My surgeon was Dr Clark at Gateshead. My oncologist is Dr Janine Lombard and my radiation specialist is Dr P O'Brien. Kim