Hello and thank you

[AnnaKarenina]

Hello everyone, thank you for being out there. I was diagnosed with breast cancer last week and I am still adapting to the news. It is difficult, but there seems to be some positive about what we know so far although what lies ahead is probably some combination of oncological therapies, endocrine treatment and mastectomy. I have spent this week having more tests, including a CT-scan and bone scan, at The Marsden. I go back next Monday/Tuesday to find out the plan once all the information has been reviewed. It is a horrible time (I don't manage uncertainty well) and telling my (grown up) children was dreadful. However, knowing that there are people out there who understand where I am and with whom I feel a great affinity is empowering. I hope you don't mind if I hang around a bit.

[Nixh]

Welcome Anna, is still such early days with your diagnoses and it does feel overwhelming.

I found when I knew what my treatment plan was a strange sense of calm surrounded me and I could deal with everything better. Not knowing is definitely worse than knowing in my experience. Keep visiting us, asking questions .. definitely do not visit Dr Google as he isn't up to date or very helpful!

The macmillan forum was also a huge help for me and a font of knowledge. (community.macmillan.org.uk)

Look after yourself, try and keep busy until Monday/Tuesday when you'll know what's happening treatment wise. Take someone with you as sometimes the info they give gets lost as there's so much to take in..

Remember you can do it, we ladies (and gents) are built of stern stuff ... our bodies are amazing things the ways they can heal and recover.

all the best,

Nix x

[04427 in reply to Nixh]

Nix is right Anna. Once you get all your results and know your course of treatment it seems to calm us a bit. Like you, not knowing is the worst. Good luck and God Bless. Come often and vent lots.

[Jennymary]

Hang around as long as you need to, once you get your results next week you'll know what the next few months will have in store for you, when you feel able to post your results as I'm sure at least one of us would have been through the same journey that you'll be going on and can give advice to help you through, I'll be thinking of you early next week xxxx

[Artemis-angel]

I know it’s hard at the time whilst you wait o know what’s next. Once you have your treatment plan hopefully you will fear better. Do your best to give your self little treats. I was diagnosed 8 years ago and have had a wonderful 8 years. Wishing you all the best.

[Elainesh]

Hi Anna, I have just finished my treatment at the Marsden and had my first mammogram which thankfully was clear. I think the hardest decision for me was deciding on options of treatment and which would be right for me and this was all over Christmas last year. My experience at the Marsden was amazing and I would recommend it to anyone. I also used the service provided by Breast Cancer Care where you can speak to people who have gone through the same thing as you. Also The Haven in Fulham has been instrumental to my support and recovery. Take care and do treat yourself regularly throughout your journey xx

[chromodoris]

Hello Anna,

There is much wisdom on here. You are at the toughest point now, as the uncertainty of what lies ahead is the worst bit. As others have said, once you know the treatment plan it will be easier to get things in perspective.

I was diagnosed in August, have had the surgery and all the tests and seen oncologist so finally know what I am facing. I start chemo next month. The first weeks waiting for things to happen were the worst, and now I just want to get on with treatment.

Fingers crossed for good results for you, and come here whenever you want to chat/moan/whatever.

[AnnaKarenina]

Thank you so much everyone for your kindness, openness and wisdom. I am beyond grateful. I will continue to take it one step at a time and look forward to getting to know you all a bit better as I make my way through this strange phase and adapt to my 'new normal'. You are all wonderful. x

[Hidden]

Welcome, AnnaKarenina. A breast cancer diagnosis is always a terrible shock. Yes, the waiting for results is dreadful, seems always to take so long. Once you have a treatment plan decided and getting underway, you will probably feel much less anxious.

The cancer experience will also take much adjustment on the part of your family members and other close ones in your life. You will never again be as you were, who you were before your diagnosis -- you will be the same person in the usual sense, yes, but different, too. You will always carry your cancer experience. You are always becoming.

You will always have understanding here.

[AnnaKarenina]

Thank you so much Kewpie. This place is such a solace. I am thankful beyond words for the internet and this little spot in it!

[Petergirl2]

Hi Anna! I'm recently diagnosed and scheduled for surgery. I agree once you have a treatment plan that helps a lot and have someone with you when you go is good advice m