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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Suspicious Abnormality on Mammogram
Answered by
Cleveland - OH
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Suspicious Abnormality on Mammogram
by miztp, Aug 02, 2007 12:00AM
I'm 47 years old needing a breast biopsy. I had a routine mammogram that showed a spot (no lump is felt)and then I had a spot compression with magnification . The findings were:
Presence of cluster of microcalcifications in the left outer quadrant. They are somewhat pleomorphic. Possibility of intraductal carcinoma. Bi-Rads Category 4. Is cancer probable with these findings and a bi-rad 4 ?. What is the % that it's cancer? I just want to be prepared for the biopsy findings.
Presence of cluster of microcalcifications in the left outer quadrant. They are somewhat pleomorphic. Possibility of intraductal carcinoma. Bi-Rads Category 4. Is cancer probable with these findings and a bi-rad 4 ?. What is the % that it's cancer? I just want to be prepared for the biopsy findings.
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, Aug 06, 2007 03:04PM
, Aug 06, 2007 03:04PM
Dear miztp: Microcalcifications are small calcium deposits found within the breast tissue. There are different types of microcalcifications, and based on their pattern on the mammogram it gives the radiologist clues as to their cause. For instance microcalcifications that are more scattered are probably due to a benign (non-cancerous) cause, a “cluster” of microcalcifications may increase concern that there may be an underlying tumor. There may or may not be any 'lesion' visible on mammography. However, if the microcalcificantions appear suspicious, further investigation, such as a biopsy, is usually recommended. A BIRAD category 4 means that there is a suspicious abnormality. Most category 4 abnormalities are benign but may require biopsy since this category can be malignant in 25-50% of cases.
I have conflicting feelings about screening...sometimes it feels over done, and yet I'd rather have something caught early. Given the very real fight so many woman are waging against bc puts everything in perspective.
This is my first time being on this site and it has been truly insightful so far. I am a 33 year old female that found a lump in my breast. After the mammogram (VERY painful) and ultrasound, a 1 cm lump was indicated. The ultrasound findings indicate "an area of palpable abnormality 4 cm from the nipple. This is a suggestion there is some enhancement posteriorly suggesting this may represent a complex cyst.Would first advise that attmepted cyst aspiration be obtained and if no fluid is aspirated, core biopsy be obtained subsequently under ultrasound guidance. IMPRESSION; Well defined density in the right breast in the area of palpable abnormality, either representing a complex cyst or solid mass. Suggest ultrasound cyst aspiration be attemped, and if no fluid is aspirated, ore biopsy be obtained. BI-RAD Code 4: suspicious abnormaility - biopsy should be considered."
My biopsy is scheduled this coming Monday and I am very fearful of the outcome. No history of any breast related cancer or any other cancer for that matter in the immediate family. A couple of days after the mammogram, I started experiencing a burning sensation on the opposite side of where the lump is as well as some burning sensation on the other breast (no lumps in the left breast). The burning sensation has not gone away and it's been about 7 days since the testing. I don't know what to think at this point. If fluid is aspirated, then does that mean this is cyst related and not cancer? Why do I feel a burning sensation still?
I am very scared so anyone out there, wish me luck, pray (if you pray) for me and if anyone can answer my questions, i would greatly appreciate any feedback i could get.
Thanks!
I appreciate your response and well wishes. This really is a difficult time and the waiting is excruciating! I appreciate you informing me that complex cysts can have the possibility of not being aspirated. I helps me to understand that no matter what, I will have to wait for results. I wonder though..if it is aspirated does it mean it was definitely a cyst or still can't tell. I'm sorry you went through it 4 times! That must have been tough. I too had some abnormalities in the cervix which required me to have cyrotherapy to freeze the abnormal cells out. So far I'm ok there, but what the heck?? How much more can we handle of this stuff? :)
I wish you well on your test on the 10th. I will be thinking of you as well. Sending positive vibes....
I think radiogists are often over cautious, especially if they are inexperienced. But I agree with you that it is important to catch things early. It is stressful to go through this constantly... Are you seeing a breast specialist or general surgeon? Can you go to one of the large teaching hospitals for a second opinion of they suggest another biopsy?
I go to a very reputable hospital in Boulder, CO, with a new cancer center to boot (let's hope I never see the inside of that facility). After the craziness I went through last year, I changed doctors, breast surgeon and facility and have been very happy with my care since the change.
I was reading some else's post from last year stating they've never had a normal mammogram. Neither have I. In the past I thought they were being very conservative because my mother had bc, but reading everyone's experiences, what we're all going through sounds like the norm. Crazy!
Also, the burning you feel may be the pressure of the cyst or inflamation (inflammation) of your breast tissue around the cyst. Once it's drained or removed, you probably won't feel the burning anymore.
When do you go in again?
Positive thoughts back at you... : )
When do you go to find out?
My biopsy is scheduled for tomorrow, Monday August 6th at 9 a.m. I just hope that since it will be pretty early, it's sent to the lab early and that I have an idea of what I'm dealing with by Wednesday. Also the burning pain I feel is mostly in the right breast but also in the left as well, so I'm thinking that makes sense. It's a little more painful on the right though. Anyway, I will keep you posted and probably check in again tomorrow just to let you know how it goes.
Thanks so much to both of you (Montana girl included) for responding. It has truly helped me feel a little more positive. :)
I hope your biopsy goes well tomorrow. You're in my prayers. Please let us know your results.
lcrisp - all the best to you in the morning. Please keep us posted.
I had my biopsy yesterday and the doctor said he was 99.9% accurate that it is a fibroadema. I left there feeling more comfortable then going in. I'm not going to count on this result until I actually see something that says "no cancer." I mean, I guess it is a pretty bold statement for the doctor to say if he wasn't that certain...so I'm hoping for the best. The waiting game is still tough though...
I want to thank you ladies again. You both have been very helpful during this last week.
85% of calcifications are benign. Of those suspicious enough to biopsy, only about 25% are malignant, and then they usually are a very early form of cancer or precancer. I've had 2 Birad 4 biopsies for calcs that turned out benign. I know it's alarming, but there's a good chance everything will be fine.
Take care. Until next year...
Thanks, I am glad to have found this forum and appreciate any info. you can share.
I was numbed up very well for the proceedure but I understand some places don't numb the breast. You might want to check on that. Laying on the table was somewhat uncomfortable even tho they tried hard to make me comfortable. All in all I didn't think the proceedure was too bad. Plan to take it easy the rest of the day, though, and tell your family they need to pamper you. The nurse told me that! Sorry to hear you need to go through the stress of a biopsy, but remember they are very often benign.
It really stinks when you are given a little bit of information and a lot of time to wait.
Thoughts of having CA have been consuming me these past two weeks.
I feel better prepared and more informed now. I have more hope.
I will let you know how it turns out.
Comments on this welcomed.
I will continue to pray for you.
ckf - I also went from film to digital mammography this year and was told I needed a biopsy by the 1st radiologist. I asked another radiologist to read it and was told the changes in my calcifications were due to the clearer picture on digital. At the same time, I was asked to come back in 6 months to be sure. My understanding is that it is very difficult to compare film to digital. I hope your problem is nothing more than the clearer picture with digital.
Helen - Please keep us posted. I hope all went well today.
Brooklyn Girl - It is stressful, but remember that 85% of microcalcs are benign.
Sorry to hear about the additional health problems so many of you have. You are all in my prayers.
Snowtree - please let us know how everything went yesterday.
ckf - wonderful news.
Food for thought.
So, what are they recommending for the suspicious calcs or mole or whatever in your right breast this year? or has it disappeared?
First, I would ask for a copy of the pathology report. Have the doctor explain everything you don't understand. Ask how large an area would be removed at the surgery, if you need to take extra days off work, what limitations you'll have after surgery, etc. Also ask if/what other treatment might be necessary. You didn't say what the biopsy was for...lump or calcifications, or both. Let us know more about what the biopsy was for and your lab results. I will keep you in my prayers.
Everything that needed to come out was removed w/the lumpectomy. I was very lucky and had clean margins, meaning that there was no malignancy in surrounding tissue. I was surprised by the amount of my breast that was removed. Even though my DCIS was 3mm they removed tissue bigger than the size of a golf ball. They want to make sure! I did not have lymph nodes removed/tested. My DCIS did not warrant chemo.
Also due to the small size my surgeon did not want to use radiation. This is due to the fact that once you radiate an area you can not do it again. I did see an oncologist to discuss tamoxifen. He did not feel that it was necessary in my case as in his opinion my chances of havng any spread were only slightly higher than if I never had cancer at all. On that basis and due to the possible side effects I opted not to take it. But this is something that needs to be determined by a variety of factors and once your wife's surgery is over you will have a better sense for the best course of action. I hope this helps you understand a little better the procedure. If I can help in any other way, let me know and I will try.
My prayers are with you and your wife. I admire her courage and your suport for her.
I am waiting for my results on Wed. It is great to have hope again after reading all that is posted on this site. Thanks for taking the time to reassure others and enlighten others of their options and give advice.
Snowtree - good luck on the 27th. Please let us know what happens.
Would you also pray for me? I have two densities on my latest mammogram and return for spot compression mammo this Thursday, 8/23.
Another friend in Christ.
Good luck to you.
a.june - One thing about calcifications is that if they are cancerous, they usually indicate an early, very treatable cancer. Sorry you have to go through this.
I will keep both of you in my prayers.
snowtree, let me know how you did, and you are right, I should not try to cross a bridge that is not yet there.
Take Care All
Waiting for that small still voice.
Take care
I am still using the underwires but have vowed to myself that next week I will go purchase some new bras.
I purchased a lavendar enzyme deoderant and to tell you the truth, it doesn't work as well as the other stuff, but I am glad that I switched. I have found that I need to apply it a couple times per day, if I apply it three times, it works great. If I only do it once or twice, I have noticed that I can get a little smelly under the arms. Not used to that. But I supposed God made our bodies perfectly and we are the ones who screw them up, by the things we put in them and on them, to defeat their true purposes. We are supposed to sweat out toxins. I'm realizing that maybe that is part of the reason that cancer rates are always on the rise. Our bodies are just so full of toxins, between the aluminum deodorants, and all the chemicals in our food, air and water, we really have to work hard to make wise choices to assist our body in staying healthy. Regardless of how my biopsy (I started typing "autopsy", opps...) turns out, I know that this experience will have changed me for the better. I feel empowered to work harder towards maintaining my health, and I have come to the realization that we don't 'catch' diseases, we create them.
I thank you and everyone else for your efforts with this forum. I know that I have made new friends and we all know that we can never have enough!
Good luck with your son. Stay positive and my thoughts and prayers will be with YOU on Monday.
Anyway, they did an ultrasound while they were inserting the needle and sucking out the samples of the mass through the needle. The whole process took about an hour. They wanted to insert a clip into my breast which they would leave in forever and I objected and luckily the doctor told me that he would not put in the clip. He said that if it comes out malignant, there will be no marker in the breast without the clip so that I will need to have surgery within two weeks so that they can see exactly where they were working and taking samples. He said that the sampling site would not heal for two or three weeks so a quick surgery would be in order to make sure they would take tissue from the 'right' site.
When they were done, the technician cleaned off my breast, applied about 8 or 10 steri strips (like butterfly bandages) over the incision which is only about 1/2 inch long. Then they put a little compression bandage on the site which was a roll of gauze covering the incision site secured in place with surgical tape. Then they sent me for another mammogram. Then put a small ice pack on it and then my bra. As soon as I got home, I put a bigger ice pack over the area inside my bra. I put a couple snack size ziploc bags with water in them into the freezer and everytime the ice would thaw, I would put a new one on the site (wrapped in a paper towel). I had the procedure done at 8 am and kept ice on the site til about midnight. This morning I removed the compression bandage and tomorrow I can try to remove the steristrips, but I will probably leave them in place an extra day because I did have some bleeding today, which bled through my clothing. I started doing laundry this morning and probably overdid it! I really had no major pain. I think all the ice really helped a lot. I also really took it easy yesterday after the procedure - rested a lot during the day.
It really wasn't bad. The worse part it the worrying and waiting. I should get my results on Monday and will be sure to share them with you.
I know that you will be OK. I will pray for you and for your healing. I am not a very religious person but I do know that Jesus healed people who had faith in his ability to heal. Believe that He will heal you. I truthfully can not even imagine what you are going through. Try to focus on the positive, on the success rates, and feel grateful for all of the wonderful people and good things in your life. Take time for youself.
I know how hard it is wondering. It is so hard with the kids. I know when I was waiting in line with my son at his school registration, tears were welling up in my eyes thinking that I may not be around to do this with him next year. I was probably the only mom in line that was not complaining about how long and slow the line was. I suddenly was just so happy to be standing there next to him. I had to wait a month for my biopsy, so it was a long painful month for me. I am supposed to get the results tomorrow. I have made the decision to not tell my children. Also, I will not tell any family members til I have the results. If it is malignant, I will have to figure out what I am going to do. It is hard to keep it to myself, my husband is the only person that knows. That is one reason that this forum is so great. You can talk to a bunch of great women who are going through the same thing. You don't have to worry about them telling anyone. My personal opinion is not to tell anyone until you know for sure, then weigh out how you want to handle it. I just didn't feel that I wanted to put my kids through worries, especially now that it is the beginning of a new school year and all the everyday stresses they go through with new schools, teachers, etc. I chose not to tell my other family members because I did not want to put them through what I am going through, hopefully unneccesarily.
Keep us posted....
Be Well,
Tam
Oh, I meant to tell you, the biopsy did not hurt, just uncomfortable. I had the breast through the hole type, positioned on my tummy, because of the location of the microcalc. More undignified than anything. Any thoughts on the 50% number that the radiologist gave? That is really bugging me. Also, she asked if my husband and I had decided on a surgeon as she was doing the biopsy. Not good bedside manner.
I agree with you whole heartedly that waiting is the worst part. Just tell me right then and there and I can deal with it and move on! But that is not the case. The only way that I got through my August 06 was with some help from my mother's xxanax. I will keep you in my prayers as you wait to hear your results. Try to stay positive. I disagree w/the 50%. The only numbers that I have ever heard, not only on this site, but from my own surgeon is 85%. Keep that in mind. The odds are with you, not against you.
Tamgirl, I will be praying for you. For all of us the waiting is terrible and I, too, had a doctor with a bad bedside manner. Didn't he realize that if he was having a bad day that mine might be worse? I pray I never get that radiologist again. So don't let his mood effect yours.
Please everyone post your results asap. Praying for you all. Also Joygirl you didn't create any guilt. I am a person who analyzes and I knew God wanted me to quit eating some of the bad things. Sugar especially. I like your thought on a bank account. It HELPS me choose better items to eat now. I go Wed. for my consult with the surgeon. Just remember gals,of all cancer Breast cancer is the most treatable and curable. Let's not give up hope. I love this site. Sometimes I feel like I am a loon going from moments of great faith to crying. It is just so much to deal with and I realize I am normal well as normal as one can be!
Praying for all your results. Hang in there snowtree, joygirl, tamknit.
Take care.
Good luck on Wednesday. I know you will get through this and I, too will be praying for you.
God Bless You as you proceed...
Try not to watch too much depressing news on TV. Put on comedy or something that you like. Try to surround yourself with happy stuff. I try only to watch parts of the news, if I want to hear the weather forecast or the sports, or a main story of something that is going on, I watch that part only, then I turn it off. Hearing about all the rapes, and drive by shootings, and hit and run accidents, stories about cruelty, etc. really brings us down. We don't need that right now. Rent your favorite happy movie, comedy or romance. It will make you feel better. Try to spend time with positive people. Try to let go of any anger or resentment that you hold onto. It will raise you up!
So take heart we are not in this fight alone. We are all called to prayer warriors.
Snowtree take heart, Joy girl it is a roller coaster ride to which we have little control of. I will be praying as we all await results.
Take care
Be Well,
Tam
Tam - I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I love hearing about all the benign biopsies, but we do need a reality check because we all know that some biopsies do find cancer. I'm glad you're feeling strong, and that you have a husband to lean on when you're not feeling as strong since I'm sure you'll have a lot of ups and downs. I'll keep you in my prayers.
Snowtree - You're much stronger than you think. The way you support others at this site shows your strength. Praying for a good report. Please give yourself some rest and don't overdo it.
JoyGirl - I'm hoping and praying for a benign report from you today.
ALL - We all have high and low moments as we go through biopsies and wait for results. We're not looney, we're worried and stressed out women. I pray for you all.
Thanks for keeping us posted. Your news didn't scare me, it actually gave me hope. I have been so tired of waiting on calls, appointments and results that I told my husband today that I don't even care if the news is bad anymore, I just want to know so that I can move on.
Let us know what the surgeon says and what you will persue for treatments.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers!
Well, never heard a word back today. It is so frustrating. I took off work today and my husband went in late hoping to get results and be there with me before he left. Tomorrow I am working and if I get the results, I will be with clients.
Sorry for venting my frustrations but I had to wait 23 days from the time they found the suspicious nodule until I had the biopsy because there is only one dr. in the hospital who does biopsies and one nurse who schedules them and they were "using up" vacation days. It has been two months since my problems began and I have to laugh at how the signs in the hospital are all pushing for "early detection". Well they may detect the problem but I will grow old waiting to find out the results. Hopefully, I will be in a better mood and will get good results tomorrow. I'll post the results as soon as I can.
Mine incision is almost completely healed. I had to keep the gauze on for 24 hours, and the steristrips for 48 hours. I kept the strips on an extra day because I was bleeding when doing laundry at the 24 hour mark. Because of that, I felt I should keep the cut taped shut a little longer. I dabbed tea tree oil on the incision a few times each day and took the strips off this morning. Now you can barely see where the cut was. I am still pretty bruised, it looks bad but doesn't hurt at all.
DemoNurse
Will post as soon as I find out. You are a blessing!
They gave me no follow up instructions. I asked if I needed to have a follow up mammogram or anything in 3 or 6 months, and they just said no. I think I will wait two years til my next mammogram. I don't think I could take going through this again. I agree that the waiting is worse than the diagnosis. I am grateful that I have been spared any further decisions at this time. I will continue to check into this discussion, and check in on all of you, and pray for each of you.
Thank you all for being here for me.
I was thinking, it would be nice for husbands to start a string of discussions on this forum to be able to share their feelings, fears, thoughts, especially for families who chose to keep the diagnosis to themselves. We have this forum, they have nowhere to turn. I thought of that when we got the diagnosis and my husband admitted that this waiting was driving him insane. Just a thought.
Thank you and God Bless each of You.
ziggy - Please keep me posted on your results. I hope your stress ends soon. Are you back to school? We start tomorrow.
DemoNurse - This is one of the few places we can talk honestly about our breast problems where people understand what we're going through. It's so importanat to be able to talk (write) about what's bothering us and get the support we need. Outsiders just don't understand.
snowtree - I love your comment, "We're here because we want to be, so you know this is GENUINE." That is so true.
I think we can all live better lives now. We won't sweat the small stuff and be grateful for EVERYTHING in our lives - all the events, the people, the experiences (good or bad) and all the lessons life has to teach us. This test has taught me a lot and I know that I am very fortunate that I will be able to get out of this cycle of testing and waiting and worrying. I know that there are many women out there that will be in treatment and have to continue that dreaded cycle. I will continue to pray for them. Do you know what one of the most valuable lessons that I can pass on as a result of this experience and of some of my other life's lessons through my job which allows people to open up and confide their most private experiences?
Always be kind to everyone, we have no idea what they are going through. So many people are carrying around such terror in their hearts, such fear, and are so delicate. I try to smile at everyone, and say hi to passing strangers, because you never know what they are going through. I tell my kids this all the time. BE KIND TO OTHERS, while it is easy to say, it is not so easy to live. If everyone on this planet would make an effort to be more compassionate, what a better place this would be.
While I feel I have been walking around in a daze this past month or two, I don't know if anyone else noticed. I again am so grateful to have had this forum.
Thank you again for EVERYTHING. Are you expecting your results today?
I will be back to check on you!!!!
So my prayers are with you all.
I check on you all from time to time. Take care.
You will do fine, please don't worry. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Snowtree: Keep us posted on your results.
Maa64: Please come back and let us know how you are doing. I really am concerned for you. I agree with snowtree, you won't worry us. We each have our own path. As you said yourself, the cruelest thing we could do is not report in. I know you will have challenging times ahead. When you feel up to it, let us know how you are. You helped me through a very trying time and I would love to be there for you, too. Good luck to you and know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers always!
I will be going in for the stereotactic biopsy tomorrow at 1:00pm. I will be taking my Xanax about an hour or so before the procedure. I am very terrified. I went to work yesterday but it was difficult. I have spent most of the time in bed. I haven't been able to workout since the mammo last friday. My husband will post for me tomorrow to let everyone know how it went. They said that I will be prone on the table with my breast through a hole. My husband can't be in the room because it's too small so he will wait just outside the room for me. Then all I can do is hope for the results on Friday.
Snowtree thanks for the reassurances. I am very intolerant of pain or anything that may resemble pain/discomfort.
Please pray for me. I will be praying for all of you. Still waiting on pins and needles.
DemoNurse
Please tell your husband how much we appreciate that he will post for you tomorrow. God be with you.
I had the stereotactical needle biopsy today to no avail. They just couldn't get the calcifications. And the marker wouldn't stay. They did get surrounding tissue & are hoping it is enough of an indicator. They mentioned I may be asked to come back in for another test. I have a family history. My mom was diagnosed at 49. I have a hematoma.....kind of sore. The procedure was not all bad. I am just scared......not knowing what to expect. My doctor said she would call me this coming Tuesday to let me know their findings.
My nipple symptoms concern me.
Thanks!
joan
thank you for prayers, only thing that keeps me going today.
I am still searching to see if anyone else had nipple symtoms I have. I thought they would go through the nipple when trying to get a core sample. Instead they went through the breast tissue.
Thanks again
I know right now you are forced to put yourself first because your condition warrants it.
Try to let go of any unforgiveness, anger, resentment. It will make your journey easier.
It will lighten the load as crazy as it sounds. I really benefit from her work.
Did the doctor give you any cure rate figures? Focus on the percentage that is curable. Know in your heart that you will be on the lucky side of the statistic.
I know it is going to be a long hard journey, but you are very strong and have a strong husband by your side.
You and your family will work through this. I know it will be hard waiting for the reconstruction but it will eventually happen and you will feel better about that.
I am glad that you are continuing to post. I will continue to pray for you and your family.
Blessings!
May I recommend you create a screen name and a post of your own "For husbands/significant others", It would be nice for you to be able to talk about it with other guys, from a male perspective.
snowtree - I've had 3 benign biopsies but continue to have problems. Everytime I go for a mammo the radiologists disagree on whether to do a biopsy or 6 month follow-up. Based on my previous biopsies my surgeon (plus a second surgeon) recommended 6 month follow-up. I was very stressed about each of those biopsies and know how difficult it is to have nobody to talk to that understands. That's why I keep posting here. I'm a teacher and school started this week, so I won't be able to post as often, but I still like to check in and hear how everyone's doing.
I agree that this forum is a place to speak the truth. I think that is part of the reason we all feel so close to one another. No one is trying to impress each other, it is OK if we cry while we type, no one sees.... It is just a private place where we can come and be at peace with each other.
It is refreshing in these challenging times, isn't it?
I went for a second opinion and this man gave me hope. The first doctor was a professional saw me as a patient. She started out with how far the calcifications are spread, then proceeded, to talk about partial mastecomy - the whole way to masectomy. Since my breast size is so small (only a B) she felt my breast would look better if it was removed since such a large portion had to be taken away. Then in 3 - 6 mos. a reconstruction would take place. Also she told me since I am so young 43 I would definitely have chemotherapy. Also that she had a lot of tools to use since I am so healthy, (yea right, I have cancer get real). That since it is estrogen driven, we could remove my ovaries, and we would give me the drug tamofin (spelling) and that would block all estrogen. She was going on a full frontal attack. She informed me that I would probably go into early menopause, which meant hot flashes, vaginal dryness and other things.
This was just TMI for one day. Satan had me on the fast track to as much as human hell one could take.
My doctor yesterday, told me that it isn't his decision to do chemotherapy, it is the onocologist. A blood test reveals that. Plus he works with a team of doctors and every Wed. they review all the cases in the office and will make decisions collectively. He told me he will do everything he can to save my breast first. If that is my desire. He said until he has the MRI of both breasts he won't go over any options. FACT: 85% of calcifications in women's breast are benign, the fact that I am in the 15% is unfortunate but I am in an EARLY stage of breast cancer. Very curable, but he needs to know all the facts before he can give me a diagnosis. He made no promises, but assured me he is in the business of saving women. He loves his job and loves saving people. Each time he gave me bad news he counter with something positive or stopped and allowed me to get on board, gave my mind time to cushion the blow. He felt bad about my hematoma. He was just so compassionate. The other doctor maybe better, I don't know but if I go into this without hope I know my prognosis is not as good. The lesson, this is your battle, and it is a battle if something in your gut (in my case - God is directing me somewhere else) tells you something is wrong - move on. Find your soldiers carefully because we are the generals in this battle and God is the commander in chief. If it is moving too quickly, MRI's, plastic surgeons, etc. ask if it can be slowed down. Your brain just can't take all this info. in, process it and make good decisions. And please find those prayer warriors to pray when you can't. This is the most important thing, you need to break through Satan's plans for hell in your life, he came to steal, destroy and kill. If you can't pray find someone who can!
Take care all. Thanks snowtree and montana girl for your prayers. I feel that we feel out of control with this diagnosis and we go with whatever is decided for us which makes us victims, I stopped being a victim and my new doctor is giving me time to make some decisions. I felt out of control but God was in control the whole time. I am definitely learning to lean on Him wholly.
So yes, just the fact that we are women we are in danger of developing breast cancer. Let's keep our mammos in a yearly basis, no matter what. And yes, unfortunately we have to believe the doctors (radiologist) whatever that when they see something kind of weird in there, that we should do whatever it takes, pain and all to catch it on time. Come on, I used to be one that said "I have faith in God and I don't need doctors, if God wants to take me, so be it", but you know that someone opened my eyes and straightened me out by telling me that I WAS TEMPTING GOD IN WHAT I WAS DOING, THAT IF I HAD THE FAITH THAT I SAID I DID THAT I WOULD GO TO THE DOCTOR AND DO THE TESTING AND HAVE FAITH THAT IF GOD WANTED TO TAKE ME HE WOULD STILL DO, THAT I WAS USING THAT REASONING BECAUSE I WAS REALLY SCARED, AND THAT IF MY CAR BROKE, HOW COME I TAKE IT TO THE MECHANIC, IF GOD COULD FIX IT, INSTEAD, THAT IF ANY OF MY APPLICANCES BROKE (THE SAME), EVEN THOUGH I'VE HAD APPLIANCES THAT HAVE BEEN FIXED THROUGH PRAYERS, BECAUSE I HAVE HAD THE MONEY TO FIX IT, yes, miracles do happen, I've seen them too much in my life to say that they don't. But, God want us to be pro-active (Not to help Him, because give me a break, He doesn't need any help from us), but just to see that we appreciate the breath He gives us, that we just don't take it for granted. Well, friends I won't be writing anymore today, because I'm only getting two to three hours of sleep time, and I have the darkest circles around my eyes, I will try to lay down for 45 minutes, at least. Write to you soon. God Bless All Of Us. snowtree
God bless you as you work through the details and the decisions.
I will pray for good results for you today.
It is similar to what happens when you drink from plastic water bottles that get over 100 degrees. They get over that temp sitting in your car on a warm sunny day. You should drink out of glass at home but on the go, you should get a bottle that has a number 5 or 7 in the recycle triangle.
Many of the sports bottles that you buy and refill have this higher density plastic which is less likely to leach. Just make sure that when you empty it, you let it dry out completely. I try to dry mine out (just take the lid off and invert it overnight) each night so that you don't get mold or bacteria growing in it. Water is important for your body. Make sure you are drinking adequate amounts.
Also, the hysterectomy seems harse. I don't know enough about that but it seems like that would generate a lot more money/insurance, and I would really weigh that decision. What are the risks or benefits to doing that if they are healthy organs? I just don't like the idea of being forced into menopause while you are going through all the rest of this.
May God make your decisions easier and obvious to you. I pray that He will make your path clear.
I am doing great after my biopsy. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, I mostly slept through it after my cocktail (2 extra strength tylenol, 1mg. xanax and 25mg. benadryl). I remember when the radiologist tried to give me the first shot of novacaine-I almost jumped off the table. I was so nervous. When I regrouped then she was able to do what she needed to do and get me out of there. I saw the tissue that was removed. They got all the calcifications out and put in a marker. My husband gave me 2 more tylenol about 7:00pm and I slept until 2:00am. He did switch out the ice packs a few times. This morning I don't have any pain. Just some soreness when my arm brushes against my breast. The pressure dressing is still on and I will leave it there until tonight. I know if I don't hear today I won't hear until Tuesday. I am just taking it easy today-did laundry and cleaning yesterday. I will do the fair over the weekend. My husband barely slept last night because he was so concerned for me. He went to work early today and slept in the car before going in. Everytime the phone rings I am terrified it's then with bad news.
In any event this is a great forum and no matter what the results are I will continue to post. Thanks for helping me through this very difficult time.
DemoNurse
It is the absolute worst feeling, and just to prep you, the waiting is the worst. You torture yourself and you don't even know if you need to be thinking the worst, but our minds just keep working. I am hoping and praying that you get the results today. I waited 28 days, and I was numb the whole time, I lost a month of my life waiting. It is hard to focus on anything else.
All: Here is an interesting exercise to get our minds off the worries. When no one is home, put on your favorite upbeat song and dance like nobody's watching. I did that today for the first time in a long time and I have to tell you, I felt a little silly at first, even considered closing the drapes, but just went with it. When the song was over, I felt revitalized and eneretic and like my life was coming back. Just had to share that. Something to try to change your mood or state of mind....
Since my husband was the only one that knew what I was going through I don't think I will tell the kids. It will only disturb them and I don't want them to worry about me. I will pray for all of us.
DemoNurse
Tammie
Tammie, If you change to a different forum, will you post where that is?
As I read the thoughts from everyone posted, I realize I am not alone in the frustration of having to play the waiting game. I am a 35 yr old single mom of a 6 yr old boy. I had a mammogram 2/16/07 and told that some calcium deposits were seen &, while they are nothing to worry about, I needed to have a follow-up in 6 months. I had my follow-up 8/30/07. The clustered round calcifications are more prominent, increased in size and increased in number. The dr. at the radiology office tried a biopsy but the location of the cluster is too high. I will have to see a surgeon Thurs.(9/6) for a consult and then most likely have to wait another weekend before the biopsy. Of course, waiting w/o an answer seems to be the worst part of this phase. If I just had a yes or no answer, I would at least know what my next step needs to be...especially with regards to my son. I have looked up info but not found what I am looking for. Some sites say most microcalcifications are benign. I would like to know if that statistic still holds true for microcalcifications that have become more prominent & increased in size & number w/in a 6 month period of time. If not, what is the statistic? Something else that I know will affect my statistic is that my mom had breast cancer a little over 10 years ago and my sister had a metastitic (sp?) lump removed when she was 18. I picked up the results from the radiology office and seeing the words 'suspicious of malignancy' does not help in regards to waiting.
The biopsy showed fibrocystic changes. No cancer. I was so happy. All I can say is waiting is hard. I did alot of praying and this forum was very helpful. All the post have information that I could learn from. I did take some time to rethink decisions that I have made. The day of the biopsy my husband and I decided that we no longer wanted to go through with our divorce. We realized that the small stuff didn't count. We got through this hurdle and are now seeing this as a test. I honor the word of GOD. I pray more now and I am always looking to be a better person in every way. We chose not to tell the children until the results were confirmed. Since everything is benign we use it as a lesson and the children don't even know because we think it will worry them.
Take this time to try to relax, push aside the small things that we worry about and love the ones closest to you. There are some wonderful prayer warriers here that will have you in their prayers as I will.
DemoNurse
I went to many websites and found that this forum was the most helpful for me. Like I said, I had new fibrocystic changes which I need not worry about but because I was told I needed a "biopsy" I panicked. I was terrified and when I look back on 8/24/2007 I see all the things that I didn't do because I didn't have the strength like cleaning, cooking, working out, being with friends, etc. I did sleep after I had reached a peak of exhaustion. I worked one day and was totally ineffective. I was able to get my son to football practice/games and we did some school clothes shopping but it was with that feeling of dread. I didn't want to totally deprive him. I spent alot of time thinking about the things that I wanted to change and that was where I realized that I needed to be a better person-learn to forgive, love those who don't love me and live by the word of GOD. I do understand.
I came to the decision that positive or not there were changes that I needed to make in my life and I am going to stick to making those changes. I refuse to sweat the small things any longer and I want to continue to blog here. If I can help one person then I have met my goal of giving to others.
Have fun with your son-he needs you as you know. Continue to inform yourself and be reassured that no matter the outcome you have an arena where you can find support. Remember the statistics are on your side.
DemoNurse
snowtree-I go for my next mammo in mid-October. Sounds like you need to take it easy and get over the flu.
DemoNurse - Hooray! I'm so happy for your benign results.
Tamknit-I think you deserve some pampering with all you're going through. I'll bet the pajamas and robe are lucious! It's amazing how quickly you've gotten everything scheduled. That's great. I'll keep you in my prayers.
I get sucked up in researching problems, too. Knowledge is good. The medical people throw so much at us, it's important to be informed and know that we're making the right decision. But, after a few days of researching I think it's important to reduce the time. The more we dwell on our problems, the more we worry. I know it's hard, but if you can find something pleasant coming up to put your thoughts and energies into, or try to remind yourself of a happy event in the past, it helps to reduce the stress. You'll still think of the biopsy every single day and that's ok. It's just that the stress is so hard on our bodies, and I think we need to at least try to add some positives to our day.
I've told several friends about my breast problems, but they never really understand how stressful it is and I don't think they know what to ask or say. Their silence is very hard on me. That's why I count on this site so much when I'm going through breast problems. I'm glad you found us and will add you to my prayer list.
Snowtree: I am going crazy with you waiting for your results. I'll keep praying
All: I had made the decision not to tell my kids. While my results came back negative, I just realized the other day that I went to search something on the computer that began with a c, and several cancer searches that I had done came up, then one morning I was in the bathroom with my husband and I showed him my bruise, the bedroom door was open and I caught a glimpse of my 11 yr old son in the mirror, he had walked in the room and didnt realize he was walking in on us.
Well, my three kids were getting ready for school and I just said, family meeting, we need to tell the kids. I just told them that in case they overheard, or saw anything on the computer, that I had some problems and there was some concern that it could be cancer, so I have been researching it and talking about it a lot, but I assured them that I had it all checked out, it was not cancer and everything is fine. I just didn't want them to be worried in case they had put two and two together. I am glad I did. We will keep this within our immediate family, not telling my mom or other family member, no need to worry anyone else. Grateful that all is well. I just wanted to share that DemoNurse in case there is any chance your kids may have overheard anything or sensed your fears.
My best wishes to all of you.
What does this all mean? I received the result on Friday, 8/31/07, and received a prescription for the procedure, which I will schedule on Tuesday, 9/4/07. I am going through an emotional roller coaster ride. I don't know what the "BI-Rad" ratings mean, nor do I know the % possibility that the results could be benign.
Can my findings and recommendations be explained to me? I am having an awful holiday weekend full of worry. I know I should be more positive and have faith in God. However, I am very scared as to what this could be. Please help!
Everything you are experiencing during this process is "normal". You are not alone-no matter the diagnosis. That was my greatest comfort. I am still learning from the people in this forum and in six months, I will still be here for the support.
DemoNurse
Just needing to have a biopsy put me in a tailspin that I haven't completely come out of. I noticed that I must force myself to get out of bed let alone the house. I haven't prettied myself up since the day of the mammogram. It takes all that I am to shower and brush my teeth. I think a day at the spa may be helpful. I don't even have the energy to go to the gym and exercise. Has anyone experienced this. My husband asked me to spend some time out of the room today and after 15 minutes I just wanted to go back to my safe haven. I have all but stopped taking calls from family and friends. I think it was because I decided that I needed to focus on me for a change and it was nice just doing what I wanted/needed for a change. I don't miss anything that was taking up my time before the mammogram. Spiritually I am noticing more and looking for greater meaning. There is good that came from this and I don't want to waste this experience. I want to train for the next breast cancer walk but I don't have the energy now. Any advice?
DemoNurse
Labhusky, I end up getting the same way in regards to putting things on hold for this reason or that. Before my mammogram, I had a plan of action for this weekend to tackle a project...Since this came up..I have not done diddly squat with it and it is already Monday. I am going to have to work double time this week while my son is at school to get it done and still do my job. I did get some polish remover out so I could do my toes and still did not even do that. I like the idea of going and having them done professionally. That sounds like just what I need to get me out of this funk. Even now, it is already after 1pm and I am still in just a t-shirt w/ no bra, no make-up, and my hair tied in a bun. Usually, I put something casual on and at least some lipstick. Well...I am going to put some lipstick on and then sit down to lunch with my son. Hope everyone enjoys the rest of their Labor Day weekend!
DemoNurse - I think it's great that you're getting some days just for yourself. But, I also hope you'lll be ready for phone calls and people soon, because I think you need others to lean on, too.
Ladies, I'm still praying for your biopsies and lab results. God be with each of you.
Anyway, It is soooooooooooooo frustrating. I really feel for you. I know it must be hard on your daughter. If I were you, I would call the doc. or hosp. first thing in the morning and tell them that you need the results. Is your daughter in the service over there? God Bless her. I am sure it is difficult for her being so far away when she would want to be there for you, as hard as it is for you. I know you will get the results tomorrow, you HAVE TO. Then you can both set your minds at ease.
I am praying for you both.
The downside is that if the biopsy came back positive, they would not know exactly where they had gone in, so I would need surgery within two weeks because there would be enough damaged tissue in the area of the biopsy for them to know where the samples were taken. If more time passed, the breast would heal and they would not know for certain where the sample was taken. I had a solid nodule which I figured would still be there and if they had to go in, they should be able to find it.
I also react to lots of things, like for instance, I get every side effect from medications to the extent that I will not take medicine unless it is an emergency. So it is my own personal preference. The medical community would not agree with me but it is my opinion and my body, so I refused to let them put the marker in. Now, with my biopsy haven come back negative, I am extra happy that I refused it. I feel that the metal in my breast would have caused me more complications, possibly blocking the flow of something that should be flowing in my breast, or my body would see it as a foreign invader. It is just not natural and I didn't want it plain and simple.
As for the procedure, I was on my back and they went in using ultrasound as a guide. They said I could have taken tylenol then next day but I did not take anything for pain. I just used the ice packs and rested a lot that day. I don't know if the procedure is that bad, but for me, it was more the emotional drain that kept me in bed most of the day. I was glad that my kids were all in school because I had the procedure done at 8 am, was home by 11, and slept and rested all day. It was not painful. Just relax and pamper yourself. You will need it after all the worries. Plus you have the most difficult wait of your life ahead of you. I am not trying to worry you, the odds are with you that it is negative, but just to prepare you for the wait. For me, the biopsy was one step closer to finding out the truth, the waiting time from the biopsy til the results was the longest five days of my life.
Force yourself to do some things that get you in a good mood and get your mind off it.
That is the best thing you can do for yourself right now. Take time for yourself, maybe schedule a message or something to pamper yourself on Thursday. Biopsy Friday, right?
Best of luck to you and I will pray for you.
Snowtree: did you get your biopsy results. Praying for excellent results for you and for all.
Take care, praying for all.
Do you know they did the same thing to me, the nurse finally had the results in her hand and said that the dr. would have to review them and they would get back to me. You have got to be kidding! She wasn't, four hours later I finally had the results. In the interim, I had convinced myself that it must be positive, otherwise she would have told me right away.
I am hoping that the reason they are not too concerned about telling you is because it is negative.
I will keep praying for you.
Keep calling tomorrow, eventually they will get tired of hearing from you, or someone will realize what you have been going through and get you the results. Call your doctor's answering service if they are not in and have the doctor paged. Better yet, call the answering service before the office opens, and tell them what you are going through and just maybe, the person will be compassionate and will page the doctor. It is just not right that you have to wait so long. I feel for you.
I have been praying for all of you. Isaiah 26:3 has always been a favorite verse of mine... "I will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in me" I am not going through anything like what you ladies are but knowing I have to go back in 6 months sometimes has me worried so I have to constantly be reminded to look at God and not any circumstance I am in.
Tech: Now put your hand here. How does that feel? Are you okay?
Man: Hello? No, I am not okay. But, everytime you ask me that question, these two plastic plates are clamped onto my testicles that much longer...and, YES!, I know I have to stand still during the picture. Stop talking and just take the &%# picture! What do you mean you have to take it from the side now? By the way, I am so sorry about being so rude to you just a moment ago? Really, I am. (Tech tightens plates a little more.) Wow, you have beautiful eyes. YIKES! I said I was sorry!
Tech(in a very slow speech): Now, how do you feel? Are you ok? Don't move. Wait, so you really think my eyes are beautiful? That is soooo nice of you to notice. I just had one of those lasik surgeries so it is nice to not have to wear glasses anymore. Okay. Hold still. I would hate to have to reposition you just because you moved. Oh darn...This machine does not want to take the picture. Hmmm. Oh we just have to magnify the picture. Okay then...I think we have the last slide done now.
Doctor comes in when man comes to after his fainting spell: Well, it looks like you have something but, we won't know for sure until we scoop a piece of your testicle out. Don't worry, nobody will notice the size difference but you.
Man faints again.
Well, maybe that seemed a little harsh, but I do hope it made you laugh...which I know I have needed. I do hope that did not offend anyone. Obviously, I am leaning on a man Monday and Tuesday so I do know that they really can be compassionate. Well, I am going to head to bed. I packed my day full of meetings so time would fly by faster and I am now exhausted. I have a ton of things to do for the next few days so I hope this will carry me through til Monday with my sanity in tact. For the most part, I have been able to stay positive but, every now and then, another part of me thinks the 'staying positive attitude' is a little over-rated. For me, it doesn't have as much to do with whether the answer is positive or negative, as much as it is about having to wait to get that answer. What I have realized during the wait is that I can google all I want and find just enough info to scare the bejeebers out of me on one site and find something so inspirational on another but, I still don't have an answer...and I will not until next week...And, in the meantime, I lost valuable time I could have spent with my son...Knowing that if I were to have to lie on a deathbed anytime soon(which I do know is not very likely even if my results are positive), I would be kicking myself in the behind for wasting that time. Okay, I have vented and, once again, feel much better for it. God bless to everyone here. I will say a prayer for you/with you before I fall asleep.
Maybe you should say something when you get your results, before they hang up, remind them of how long you have been waiting and how hard it is. Maybe you will get through to someone and they will be more compassionate to the women in the future. I am off to the surgeon right now. I will check in later. God Bless You!
Tam: I have not seen you post in a while. I do hope you are doing well under the circumstances. Know that you are being thought of and kept in prayers.
Maa: I am so glad that you come across projects that can keep your mind off of the 'c' word. I almost wrote 'keep your mind off reality' but, being a mom and helping with your kid's projects is also reality...a very wonderful reality. I really like the statement that you wrote regarding God telling us to choose life. They are very empowering.
Snowtree: I am glad that I was able to make you laugh. I do hope you get your results today.
Anyway, he let me feel it so I would know where it was and it was right in the area of pain. Odd that it didn't show up in the mammo or ultrasound. Weird, right. If I am not worried about it, I may wait longer to have it checked out, what's another month or two? He was not too concerned about it.
Anyway, If you have not yet heard, please call again and just say you are returning doctor's call. sometimes that gets their attention. I know you will be fine!
If not, that nurse will be laying in bed realizing that you will be forced to wait another day. How would she feel if it were her, or her mother, or daughter, or girl friend waiting for these results?
You don't sound sarcastic, just realistic. That is a trait that I admire.
I'll keep praying for you. I think this is a lesson in patience for you, and for all of us, but a cruel one, indeed.
Incidentally, I called my regular dr. yesterday and told them I needed a copy of all my mammo/us/biopsy reports for the surgeon. I picked them up on the way to the surgeon's office, so now I have a copy of everything. My biopsy was done at 8am on Fri. 8/24, and on the report it says the results were reported 8/27 (even though they told me it would only take about 24 hours). I got the results the night of the 28th from my doc.
You should request a copy of the report from your doc or gyn (whoever finally gives you the results) so you can see when it was completed. Also, when you get the call from them, ask them right then and there if they can make a photocopy of the report for you and put it at the front desk/reception area so that you can come pick it up. You can ask for the mammo reports too if you dont have those. Mine was diagnosed as a fibroadenoma.
For what it's worth. It will be after the fact but at least you will have the info in front of you.
Someone emailed this link to me and I wanted to share it with all of you prayer warriors:
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/singingman7/Twinkies.htm
You will be fine.
Congratulations to all on their results, esp. snowtree, the strong.
I am hanging in there.
Tammie
It sounds like you have a great group of friends. How nice of them to through you a "goodbye girls" party. Just think, in time, you will have a perfect pair that you can design! They won't age and get saggy like the "original girls" would have!
The 2 lady techs took got "everything" positioned and took the x-rays. I did ask if those x-rays taken today looked the same as the other ones that were up there (like anything change or more? type) and they said, no. Sounds like they were happy with the pix they got then they got the dr to do the rest. They got that machine on which they said sounds like a sewing machine. I didnt get novacaine, something that starts with an L canine. Got one needle and the dr said dont move you will feel a pinch. After a while, another injection and he said that it is going to go deeper and that Id feel a burning sensation (you know what? I didnt). All the while, one of the xray techs would kind of rub my back a little bit over the blanket which was really nice and comforting. They had classical music playing (mozart) and I do like classical. Anyway, the dr did his thing, and got 4 samples out.
Wasnt feeling a thing, I hardly even bled (I guess some people do because its just them). Their conversation with each other was good and relaxing like a text book procedure happening the way it was suppose to. The dr even seemed happy with the clicp or chip that he put in afterward. Something about the end coming off very well (I dont know, something very positive).
After he was done, the techs had me get on my back, so they could compress my breast for awhile. That didnt hurt but that was what it was. One tech said that that is usually the "hardest" part for the patient. Then while one was putting the butterfly tape(?) and the gauze on which she said that they usually put on an overkill of that stuff to be on the safe side, the other tech asked if I would like orange or cranberry juice. I opted for cranberry. They gave me instructions; mainly no heavy lifting with the left arm for 48 hours (nice I had this done on a Friday with the weekend to rest before going back to work). I asked if I could walk for 30 minutes tomorrow and they said yes thats fine. I wanted to do my heavy laundry (bedding) but they said that if Id have to use my left arm, its not recommended. I wanted to see what they took out and they showed me the "wormy stuff" and it hardly had any blood on it at all. Maybe just a tiny bit around the edge.
While I was drinking my juice, they got my clothes out of the dressing room. They sent me with 2 ice packs. One I have on, the other is in the freezer right now. They said that if I dont have the results by 2:00 Tuesday afternoon to call the drs office.
Now, I feel very happy and uplifted and Ive had a happy feeling about this since last night, and I cant explain it. Of course till the phone call theirs a little this and that but I am feeling more positive. I even slept better last night. I did wake up at 2:00 but I got up, "did my thing" , went back to bed and actually slept till 7:15 when my alarm went off. Finally slept more than 3 or 4 hours straight. Good sign? I'll take it. After my alarm went off this morning, I reset it for 7:30 because Im one that doesnt like to get up right when the alarm goes off. I like to get up slowly after being awake for awhle and I have always been that way.
I do have some soup to warm up for lunch, and tonight Im going to drive thru an El Pollo loco for dinner. I think my breast is waking up just a little bit but it doesnt feel that bad. I'll keep you posted and thank you all for all your heads up and support, I do appreciate it. For what I had to go through today, it seemed like it was all done with love and caring all around. I will keep you "abreast" of how I am doing. I do need to grocery shop tomorrow but I will take extra care with my left side, and after I am done shopping and easily put the stuff away, I will take off the gauze after that.
I'll pray for good results Tuesday afternoon, if not sooner!
snowtree and jennyob - Like you, I feel these breast problems are never-ending. You think everything is ok and they pull the rug out from under you over and over again. They used to refer to fibrocystic breast disease but took out the word "disease" because they said it isn't a disease. But, when it doesn't go away, doesn't that make it a disease? My surgeon told me I'll probably have to deal with breast problems the rest of my life...sounds like a disease to me! At the same time, I want other women to realize that NOT ALL breast problems turn into a never-ending problem. I know a number of women who had one biopsy and never had to have another. We are the exception, rather than the rule. I don't want you all to get discouraged just because some of us have continual problems.
Tammie - Enjoy your girls night out. What wonderful friends you have! Prayers arising.
Helen V - Hooray for benign fibroadenomas!
labhusky - That's a great description of a steriotactic biopsy with all the comforting details. My last biopsy was very similar. One other thing they did that I loved was bring a warm, cozy blanket straight from the blanket warmer. (That biopsy was in Jan. in the middle of a snowstorm.) There really are some wonderful people in the breast centers.
The other thing I noticed on the paperwork...No makeup(especially mascara). Excuse me? I mentioned the no makeup to my mom. We live in S. TX. It is viciously hot. I joked with her. Here they are going to be right there by my armpit. I can't wear deoderant, obviously. So I will be stinky and now I have to look ugly too?! lol. Of course, I am just kidding. I don't feel ugly but, it was nice to laugh with my mom since I know she is worried about me too.
Today, I am going to fill my new breast cancer pink I pod with songs for surgery and chemo. I am feeling pretty good, all things considered. Hope you all are well too. Benign results for everyone else, you all can live the cancer life vicariously through moi.
Tammie
Lyrics for Jem - Just a Ride
Life, it's ever so strange
It's so full of change
Think that you've worked it out
then BANG
Right out of the blue
Something happens to you
To throw you off course
and then you
Chorus:
(Breakdown
Yeah you breakdown
Well don't you breakdown
Listen to me
Because
It's just a ride, it's just a ride
no need to run, no need to hide
It'll take you round and round
Sometimes you're up
sometimes you're down
It's just a ride, it's just a ride
don't be scared
don't hide your eyes
It may feel so real inside
but don't forget it's just a ride)
Truth, we don't wanna hear
It's too much to take
Don't like to feel out of control
So we make our plans
Ten times a day
And when they don't go
our way we
(Chorus)
Slowly, oh so very slowly
except that
there's no getting off
So live it, just gotta go with it
coz this ride's, never gonna stop
Breakdown
Don't you breakdown
No need to breakdown
No need at all
Because
It's just a ride, it's just a ride
no need to run, no need to hide
It'll take you all around
Sometimes you're up
sometimes you're down
It's just a ride, it's just a ride
don't be scared now
dry your eyes
It may feel so real inside
but don't forget enjoy the ride
The orange discoloration is from the chlorine based antiseptic they rub on before the incision, it is died so that the doc. can see that he covered it all, it used to be clear, but docs had a hard time knowing if all the areas were sterile. Hope that helps.
Tammie - I'm so glad to hear your scans showed no cancer. Sounds like you have a great bunch of friends...
Saying a prayer for all of you. Hey Judie, best of wishes to you for Tuesday and Tam & Maa, same to you for Thursday. Maa, Kudos for finishing the soccer program. All on forum: All of you are so incredible!
Alrighty then...Gotta go.
Your party sounds great, I wish we all could have been there, well, we were in spirit. It brings a smile to my face just thinking about it.
God bless you and we are all pulling for you!
I am praying for you snowtree and your family. I am so grateful for all your good reports. Just remember to keep each other in prayers.
Maa64
misty-I'm glad you have a friend helping you out. It's amazing how people come out of the woodwork when we really need them.
Is everything ok snowtree? Joygirl thanks for all the support of everyone. Thanks for hanging in there with all of us. Also did anyone ever have a mri guided biopsy? Wondering what all that entails. Already had a mri - I know what that is like just not one with a biopsy. doing both breasts. Prayers would be greatly appreciated.
Maa64
Good luck with your biopsy. I am glad that you are not worried. I know it will be OK.
How is your family? Does everyone know now?
Also the monitor what a great idea for hey judie. Terrific. You get an atta boy for today!
Take care and thank you for your prayers.
Later that day, I asked my kids to please ask any questions if they had any about what was going on with me or the tests or anything. While I thought I did a pretty good job of explaining to them what I thought they needed to know, my 11 year old son says, "So, do you have cancer or don't you?" I was shocked. Their little minds get going and after I spoke to them, he spend eight hours trying to figure out if I had cancer or not. I felt really happy that I asked them to please ask me any questions, because he may not have asked and might still be wondering.
I am so happy that your needs are being met and hopefully exceeded by your medical staff. That is very important to your whole experience. I am glad they are compassionate. You deserve to be surrounded by happy, upbeat, caring, positive people.
I wish you wellness!
You are very wise and wish more parents were like you.
My feelings are mixed. I probed the nurse, technician, and radiologist to tell me what their impression was by looking at the x-rays, ultrasound and mammogram. They all answered your doctor will give you the results. I said yes but what is your impression and they would not encourage me at all.
Regarding my son, Chris, the Pediatrician says that the EEG from a year ago was abnormal and it is likely epilesy. Now I can't remenber who gave me the results last year but I was told everything was normal and there wasn't evidence of siezure activity. So I am now woking with a case manager to schedule the necessary specialists he will need to see.
I am going back to bed with my ice pack now.
Snowtree - School is fine, just busy. I have 18 children, 3 with special needs. One is autistic, 1 is in diapers, and 1 has only a 2 min. attention span, but ability to learn if I can keep her attention long enough. The last one (a girl) lines up with the wrong class, is out of her desk regularly, and really has trouble following through on tasks. My room is a 3-ring circus with specialists in and out all day... There is always another adult voice speaking to someone, so it's never quiet and relaxed. But, they're a good bunch of kids, very lovable and sweet. Tonight was Parent Night and only 8 out of 18 sets of parents showed up. How sad.
Should get my results tomorrow.
PS I had my cardiologist appt today and he said my echo looked fine. That is good and I was able to relax a bit. He thinks that all of my irregular crazy beating heart is related to anxiety issues...oh really???????? Seriously, he is very kind. I could easlily have a crush on him.
Labhusky, I will be praying for you. As far as the soreness from a lumpectomy goes, my experience from this ordeal has been minimal. The part that has affected me the most has been from the anesthesia. Monday, when I came out of surgery, I felt fine. Immediately from the hospital, I went to fill my prescription. I was on the phone with a friend when all of a sudden I almost passed out. My mom saw my face turn green as I started to fall back. She grabbed me at the waist and leaned me over a stack of water bottles. The next day when I woke up, my friend that I am staying with said when my mom dropped me off, I could barely walk or talk and I looked white as a ghost. They put me straight to bed. Tuesday, I took hydrocodone and rested in a fog all day. Today, I had so much work to catch up on. I was not in pain so I was really surprised to find myself almost passing out again just from walking around. I laid down and slept for 3 1/2 hours. When I woke up, I was finally able to shower. I took the bandage off and was a little surprised to see how long the incision was. 2 inches. Geez. During surgery, the dr saw what was causing the calcium deposits and cut it out. It was the size of a quarter and the thickness of a finger. All in all, though, I would much rather have these spells due to anesthesia than be in a lot of pain. Something that I have done, though, is placed my arm in different positions as I am resting so I would not be afraid to move it later. I have had it over my head, on a pillow, and down by my side. I hope this helps you.
I am so glad that you got the results and that they are benign. Hooray!!!!
I am glad that you are taking tomorrow off. You need to take time for yourself and gather your thoughts and get some answers. I will pray that you can get in quickly and the surgeon will be able to get you in quick and answer all your questions. Make a list of questions so that it is easier to get everything addressed.
Enjoy your day with your dog. I am assuming a lab-husky mix? I have lab, love her to death.
I know that you must be scared. I was just thinking of something that might help you deal with all of this on an emotional level. There is a technique that involves tapping on acupuncture points that is really fast and effective on letting go of fear and anxiety. Fear is one of the most crippling emotions. If you are interested in checking it out, visit www.emofree.com and there is a list of practitioners around the world who use it. Many practitioners do this over the phone if there is not one close to you.
I am glad that you got out and went for your walk. Hopefully you will be able to get a nice long relaxing walk in tomorrow and will be able to spend time sorting things out. I know it must be very challenging. I hope that you feel refreshed and empowered to face that which is to come. I know you will get through this and we will all be here for you!
Snowtree: will be praying for you tormorrow. You have your sonogram right?
Maa64: praying for you today.
I then called the surgeon. At first there was an answering machine but I persisted and got thru to Gloria. I kind of like the way she sounded and she was very thorough in checking to see if my dr sent this that or the other thing including the referral. She didnt have it but checked her computer and I was there so she could book me an appointment. There was a cancellation for 9/19 @ 2:15 so thats when I go. She then said that I needed to get all the xrays and such that I had done to bring them with me. She said that the place I had the biop has a courrier and to call them and tell them to give it to them. I called that place and they said that it would take a week and a half but that I could get them. I asked if I could come in today and do it and they said yes.
The race is on. I called Gloria and told her what they said and if I could bring them today, she said sure. Not a hassle to get them, put them in the car and of course back to the coffee cart this time for a cappuccino. I stopped off and got a greek salad, went home to put the salad in the fridge, drink my coffee, and go to my "new" doctor.
Okay, I have been tearing up all day, and as I was headed there, the tears just streamed. I got their ok, parked, got into the building and went into the restroom to compose myself. Wasnt too great but I finally went into the little office there with the stuff. Gloria was there and asked me if I was allright. She said something about knowing how hard it is but that Im in the right place. She asked me if I wanted to take home the paper work or fill it out there. There was no one in the waiting room so I decided to fill it out there and sit down awhile (so much paper work). She took my insurance card, and I.D. and did her thing. Gosh, some of the questions were how much coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate do you consume. On the chocolate part, I put down too much. They ask how much stress are you going through now? I put, alot. They take it one step further, how much stress have you been under 3-4 months ago. Again, I put alot because thats when my mom was going thru her medical stuff.
The waiting room is kind of pretty, roses material on the chairs, and some pictures of roses and flowers. On the wall this is painted on: THE EYE OF AN EAGLE THE HEART OF A LION THE HAND OF A WOMAN their was the word surgeon but I think it was underneath that quote.
I left in feeling good that the initial part is all taken care of and I dont have to worry about getting that done or filling out the paper work 15 minutes early before the appt, so that is good. I left a little calmer, went home enjoyed my salad and now am trying to take it easy.
JoyGirl thanks for that referral for anxiety because I am the anxiety poster child. There is one woman in San Diego here that also works with Sharp hospital and she offers a free mini session. I think her name was Eloise. I will keep her in mind. I dont feel like making anymore appointments today, I just need some quiet time. Also, your right about my dog. He is a mix and is 14. He doesnt look it but can be arthritic in the back part. I give him stuff thru that with a syringe. Its like a shooter. He weighs 72 pounds so I put 70 pounds worth of medicine in it, open his mouth and give it to him, then he gets a "cookie" so it doesnt traumatize him at all. I give it to him every couple of days. He is spunky in spirit though, very stubborn!!!
Later All.
After the surgery, I start chemo in 10 days. It's going to be a long year, but it will be life changing I'm sure. I'm trying to find the higher meaning in this, maybe I will go back to Cancer nursing, it was my first love, right after I graduated from school.
Right now I'm living in Valium City most of the day. 5mg in the morning, another 5mg at night, I don't feel any guilt at all. My kids are at soccer practice, my husband took them, and plans to tell them on the way about the surgery only. The rest will come later, when they have a chance to digest that part. My little 5 year old gave me a bear from Build a Bear, which is dressed in a pink bathrobe and when you squeeze the arm, it says, "Goodnight mom, love you mom" in her little voice. She and my husband went to buy it, she thinks it is an early birthday gift. She'll know different tonight. I don't know how I will face them after they know, without crying... I need lots of strength.
Oh right... Valium City is only a step away.
Thats all for now.
Congratulations on the benign results and the precancerous ones.... together we can handle anything.
Be well,
Tammie
What type of chemo will you get? What drug? How often and for how long?
Bye for now, "see" you after surgery when you are feeling up to it.
Judie
'May 1986'
Here, on that new strange plain
where my left breast is no longer
where the angry scar blanches out
to a thin reminder
Here, my heart is closer now
to my lover's ear, listening
to the sun lazing its warm palm
on my pale skin, closer now
to the traffic blare
to shouts of street people
to the rasp of each day,
the rough, practical tones.
My heart is closer now.
Hear its steady, stubborn drum.
-by Karen Brodine
So, Tam, as your children lay their head against you, you can tell them that now, your heart is that much closer to them.
We, as women, are so strong and I just know you will be fine. Feel free to cry because, that, while some see as a sign of weakness, is actually one of the incredible strengths women have over men. We allow ourselves to grieve which helps us heal. Just remember, if you can cry, you can live. So cry and we will cry with you...And we will rejoice in life with you, as well.
Tamknit - I'm so glad your McDreamy will be nearby for you. You won't get this message until you've recovered from surgery, but you were on my prayer list for today. I pray for an uneventful and speedy recovery.
ziggy - It's nice to have scientific proof that there is nothing wrong with your heart. Anxiety certainly isn't fun, but at least you can get on with your other health issues. Have you scheduled your 6 month appointment?
mistyb - What did the surgeon mean by saying he found what was causing the calcifications? I'd sure like them to find out what's causing mine! I'm so glad to hear your results are benign and hopefully they stopped the problem.
labhusky - Sorry to hear of your DCIS diagnosis. I hope you can get all of your questions answered. Tears are theraputic. I hope you don't feel bad about tearing up. I will keep you in my prayers. Remember the cure rate for DCIS is high!
HelenV - So glad everything turned out ok with your biopsy. We need those benign reports to encourage others.
Snowtree - I have no idea how you keep up with everyone's problems on this thread. You are so concerned about all the others here. Now, we're concerned about you. I hope you find out what's causing these problems and will join us again, soon. I will pray for you.
Montana girl, you asked about the microcalcifications - my friend told me that if they are estrogen driven which mine are - soy is good idea to take out of your diet. Start reading labels. Soy is in everything. I can't believe that after one year (i get yearly to the date mammograms) so many microcalcifications showed up. It makes me angry because I did all the right things with yearly mammograms, breast checks etc. And yet these grew in me so quickly.
Labhusky - After a month of doctor appts., tests, etc. my new doctor told me that they had to check the right breast and I started crying yet again, and he said that is okay. It is so emotional, he said the cancer society did a documentary or movie about breast cancer and it was titled - And then you cry. This is the first week I have made it through without crying daily. Then I read about Tammy and snowtree and then I started again. Cancer is just so heartbreaking and so personal.
To all - thank you for your prayers - they mean so much to me. This blog lets me get out so many feelings. I will get results on Wed.
Take care.
Thanks maa
thanks
Im doing a little better here. It still comes in waves but not as long and not as heavy. The thing I am dreading now is telling my mom and should I tell her with her diabetes and all? And my half brother who is flakey perhaps not totally his fault. He had a TBI in 2003 when he was t-boned driving on the job. He was in a coma for 6 weeks. Luckily at he doesnt take RX but has some tingling nerve damage in his left leg and his cognitive skills are not the best. If I ask him a question, their are alot of uhhhhhs. I can walk away and he is still trying to process up there.
In a way, I cant wait till Wed to get the ball rolling and in a way I can wait because Im scared. All normal I know. Thursday I have a facial and a mini massage planned so I should focus on that. Was that great timing or what?
I think it is good to tell your mom at this point but only you know her and her situation. I think it would be hard to keep it from her. Does she live in close proximity to you? If so, I think it would be harder not to tell her. As a mom myself, I know I would want my kids to tell me. The fact that it is "precancerous" and sounds very treatable will make it easier for you. Make sure to stress all those positive factors to her and if you are afraid of upsetting her, you don't have to share all your fears with her, you can share them with us. Just my thoughts for now and what I would do if I imagine myself in your shoes. Well, I am extremely sleep deprived, my son has pneumonia and I was in the ER all night with my mom, we suspected a possible heart attack, it turned out fine, then they did x-rays and found something on her lunc, sent her for a CT scan and it turned out to be an arthritic spur on her spine, just looked like it was in her lung on the x-ray. So, all is well, just tired...
I'll keep you in my prayers.
I certainly hope and pray your son is recovering well from that nasty ailment, and with all the anxiety with your mom Im sure you were both relieved at that dx and are ABLE to sleep. That is a blessing!! I have been doing better at that myself. Plus getting out and walking everyday I think helps me too. Did 2.5 miles today again. Nothing like something like this to kick one in the rear to get them moving again and really appreciating being able to do it. I have been wanting to join a Y with a personal trainer too.
This "little" experience makes me want to get out and live alot more. I have been such a recluse all my life and now I just want to get this out of the way and run the other way.