Cancer

I need some support... If you've had breast cancer, please share your experience. I just found out tonight that I have breast cancer, and I'm 29 years old. The doctor who did the biopsy said it was about a centimeter in size. I hope that mean there is a good chance it hasn't gone to the lymph nodes. I will have to go for a test. So if anyone can tell me what to expect, I would appreciate it. Other than that.. prayers would be nice. Thanks, Christina

hi christina, i feel for you - this is a scary time. my spouse (a woman) is in the midst of treatment for breast cancer. we found out right before thanksgiving when she went to the doctor because of nipple leakage. she was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (dcis). it is between 4 - 5 centimeters. she definitely did not have it go to the lymphs and they did not have to take any lymph nodes. it is not life-threatening. she has had many procedures since plus a surgery, which will be repeated in two weeks because the surgeon didn't get it all. plus radiation for 6 weeks after that. i would be happy to email with you if it would be helpful. i hope you have support. i think that having someone with you at your appointments is vital. sometimes you, as the patient, cannot take in everything said to you. also, i think that waiting time for results is very very hard, and often you don't hear from a doctor/radiologist/etc when you think you will and it is nerve-wracking. i have had cancer, both my parents have, and my previous partner died 10 years ago from a rare cancer. i am thinking of you and sending you warm and healing thoughts. it's good you're letting folks know. i hope you continue to gather people around you. susan

Christina, I can not tell you what to expect. I can tell you your in my prayers and I will support your any way that I can. I know this has to be difficult. Wish I could hug you and tell you everything will be alright.Dolores

My prayers and good thoughts go out to you. I pray for you to find the courage and strength you need at this time and for nothing but good news from your test. Please keep us updated. God Bless, Doreen

I have no idea what is in store for you because I don't know anyone personally whose had breast cancer. Other kinds yes but not breast. I do want you to know that I will will be thinking about you and sending healing wishes your way. Shannon

Oh sweety - I'm so sorry. However, I know many woman who've done just wonderfully through this - including my mother when she was just 35 (in 1992). She had a lumpectomy, and then they tested the lymph nodes - some there, but not much. She was spared the masectomy. She then went through chemo and radiation and did very well with both. She always said, chemo was suppost to be a DIET and she's probably the only woman in history that GAINED weight during chemo instead of losing! She had a very good attitude through the whole thing and made me admire her more and more. My grandmother also was diagnosed at the age of 74 just a few years ago. Hers was found very early, and she only needed the lumpectomy - they got it all and she had a small round of radiation - no chemo. There are many online groups for breast cancer info and support. The one site that comes to mind is the Susan Komen homepage - it's a great place to start: komen.org/intradoc-cgi/idc_cgi_isapi.dll?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=298 I'll be thinking and praying for you honey. Katie

Tina, I also wanted to tell you that you're doing WONDERFULLY since surgery, and this might be a blessing that they found this after the surgery - because you've been losing weight and already getting healthier - you're now a stronger woman and your body will be able to handle it better.

Christina, I am so sorry to hear about your news. Keep in mind BC is able to be beaten, esp. if it is detected early. My mom was diagnosed with it 2 years ago and after being removed and bouts of radiation (no chemo) she is in remission. I will definitely pray for you and your family. Please take care and know you can vent here anytime. -Katie

Oh Honey, I am soooo sorry to hear about your news. Just the word "cancer" is so scary, but they are making GREAT strides in finding cures. It sounds like they caught yours good and early, so maybe you won't have any major problems. Breast Cancer is sooooo curable these days. Please know that you are in my prayers and you have my full emotional support.

I am so sorry to hear about this. My mother is a 28 year survivor, 2 of my aunts did not survive. My sister-in- law is currently getting chemo. Advice, Keep a posititve attitude, if you smoke, STOP SMOKING this is more important than people give credit too. In my families experience survival is increased by removing tissuse, and not beign a smoker. Also keep your sense of humor, laugh daily. Remember you can always rebuild (and they will be perky). Hold tight to your support persons, family and/or friends. And may God Bless you, Robyn