Extreme family history

[nettie918]

I had a stereotactic and 2 core biopsies yesterday.  1 Lesion was diagnosed last year as PASH.  I know have clustered calcifications and a new lesion.  I am at a new facility so they re-biopsied the old lesion. This radiologist seems to think the PASH diagnosis may be incorrect.  My family history is my mother had BC at age 43 at 58 recurrence stage four died at 61.  Both sisters diagnosed with BC at ages 43 and 47.  My Bi-rads rating is a 5 since I am considered high risk.  My sisters have tested neg for BCRA1 and 2.  Last year I was not as worried, but this time the wait is too intense.  I won't get my results until next week.  Should I bring someone with me for results?  How do I calmly wait?  By the way I am the eldest at 53.

[ncmichigan]

Good luck with your fundraiser! It's great that you care enough about others to do this kind of work when you're facing a cancer diagnosis and
treatment yourself. I'm sure you're involved because of your family history, but the good goes so far beyond your family and I thank you for that. I had a sister who died of breast cancer before her 51st birthday so I became much more aware and educated about the disease because of her. I also started donating a lot more because of that. Instead of retirement gifts, I asked my co-workers to donate to a University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center fundraiser and it was great. I continue to give every Christmas, along with other charities,because Christmas is about giving not just getting. I think we all wish we could do more so a cure will be found,but we do what we can---if we all do a little, it will happen.
Take care of yourself, pamper yourself a little before surgery and keep that wonderful spirit you have going! My positive thoughts will be with you.
Hugs,
nc
PS: Feel free to send me a private message if you prefer.

[nettie918]

Thanks, I'll be in touch.  A little irony my Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser is just before surgery.  I've worked on it for 3 months this year.  Goal 4000, wish me luck in helping to find a cure.  Hugs all around.

[ncmichigan]

I'm sure you're comfortable with your decision--if I had your family history that would be my choice, too. It's not easy surgery but many women have been through it and I know you'll do just fine. I'm glad your family will be supportive and helpful through the process-that can mean so much. It'd be nice to have Angelina Jolie's money,(nanny, maid, the best reconstruction money can buy, etc.!) but that doesn't mean we can't have successful surgery and recovery. You stay tough and I think we'll be hearing good news from you in the future!
Hugs,
nc

[nettie918]

Thanks Again Hugs always welcome.  Double Mastectomy within the next 30 days.  I'm gonna be okay.  Double was my decision, they initially suggested one only.  When I gave the surgeon my reasons she verified that was a reasonable decision.  I think it will be tough, but so am I.

[ncmichigan]

You go girl!!!
Sending hugs and prayers your way,
nc

[nettie918]

Thank you for your support.  I'm a little nervous about the journey, but I know I will come out better on the other side.  Prayers are welcome.  I am sorry for all that have ever had to deal with this crap.  

[nettie918]

Thank you for your kind comments.  I have wonderful support and I am a fighter.  The positive part is not even a question.  I've been down this road with my family and we are better than Breast Cancer, we are winners.  Thank you for the hug, those are always good.

[ncmichigan]

I'm joining zouzi in telling you I'm SO sorry to hear about your diagnosis. You sound like a really positive and strong woman and I know you'll put up a real fight against your cancer. I'm hoping it was diagnosed early and that your treatments are successful. It'll be a battle, but try to stay as positive as you are now so you can come out the WINNER!
I'm wishing you all the best and sending you a big hug from Michigan (      ),
nc

[zouzi]

I am so sorry that you have  been diagnosed with breast cancer...Many of us,here in this Forum,have suffered from this disease ....I know it's going to be a difficult journey,but the truth is that many of us survived this, and I know that you will, too.
My thoughts and prayers are with you... Hang in there,there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Wishing well and prompt recovery ....

[nettie918]

Thank you again for your positivity, unfortunately I was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma.  I did bring a friend with me, probably for the best.
With my family history I know what it is to fight like a girl.  I will give it my all.

[nettie918]

Thank you for your comments.  I'm not sure why, but I'm struggling with having someone go with me.  Your advice has given me food for thought, I will probably ask someone.  Being patient not my strong suit, but I will try.

trying to stay positive.

[nettie918]

Thank you so much for your kind comments and as you stated we have all been very proactive.  Keeping everything positive now is my best option I think.  Glad to hear you are a SURVIVOR.

staying strong

[zouzi]

Hi,
When meeting with your doctor for your biopsy results,it is likely that a lot of information will be given to you at a time when you may already feel stressed or overwhelmed.If there is something you do not understand, don't be shy... just ask for clarification.
It would be a good idea to bring a friend or loved one with you.Having an extra pair of ears may help recall and understand the information that is given.Also recording the discussion on a cell phone or a small tape recorder can be really helpful so when you go home and feel more calm,you can listen again the conversation you had with your doctor.
Waiting for the results is indeed a very stressful time.We all go through this,but there is nothing we can do about it,except waiting patiently and try to keep busy as much as possible and be around people we love and appreciate their company.
Sending you my best wishes and hoping that your biopsy results will state benign findings.

[dontworry_behappy1]

Hi There.  I too have a strong family history of breast cancer.  Unlike yourself,
my sisters didn't get BC......I did.  It sounds like you are on top of your breast health and this is the key.  I personally didn't get a BCRA1/2 test because I
chose to do all the preventive measures instead.  That choice came after I
was diagnosed with stage 1 BC.  I'm a 13 year BC survivor.  I'm telling you this because you are being pro active with your health by getting this test.
Otherwise, your on top of it and that is what saves lives.  Try to stay positive and remember your doing this for you.....so you can live a long and productive life.  I commend you on making this choice to take control of your health.  Walk in there proudly and get those test results.  Your taking care of business :).

Best to You