Just diagnosed
hi my name is Kim and I was just diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. I’m a grade 1 but haven’t been told my stage. My coordinator said it comes later. My tumor is 1.1 cm. I have an MRI next week then meet with the surgeon on the 13. I’m terrified and find myself not able to eat or sleep and cry. I watched my mom die from liver cancer and my brother from colon cancer. I’m trying meditation and have an appointment with counseling next week. I’m so lost.
Comments
-
Hi @hope3736, I'm sorry your diagnosis brings you here but this is a good place for information and support. Staging comes after the surgical pathology. There is no way of knowing for sure but if the MRI doesn't find anything additional it is likely to be stage 1 which is very treatable with an excellent survival outlook. Understandably your mother and brother's cancer outcomes are affecting your emotions now. Meditation and counseling are helpful.
Right now the unknown is disconcerting but once you have a treatment plan in place things do get better. A preliminary plan will be set up at your meeting with the surgeon but occasionally changes are made following surgery. Things move more slowly than anyone likes but that just comes with the territory. I hope your surgical appointment goes well. All the best.
0 -
@hope3736 - Hi Kim, and welcome. We're truly sorry for what brings you here, but so glad you’ve found us. It's okay to feel scared and overwhelmed after a diagnosis; you're not alone here, and many, many members here have felt the same way.
While you're waiting for more details about your diagnosis and next steps, you might find these pages on our main site helpful:
Stages of Fear After Diagnosis
Hope this helps a bit. Sending you strength and calm as you prepare for your MRI and surgeon visit. We’re here whenever you need us.
The Mods
0 -
Hi @hope3736 waiting is the hardest part. After an April DCIS diagnosis that changed to Stage 1 IDC diagnosis after the lumpectomy surgery I know how scary it can be. Here if you ever need to talk. Always find it best to distract myself; exercise, yoga, meditation, walking. Making my friends come hang out with me as much as schedules allow.
0 -
the hardest time for me was after being diagnosed but waiting for other test results. I felt so much better after meeting with the oncologist and surgeon and having a plan in place. It gave me a sense of control, knowing what the next several months would look like and what to expect.
Things will get easier.Try to do things that you enjoy & take care of yourself. Be kind to you. For me, going for walks was a huge help, being outside & getting some exercise helped calm me and give me some peace.
1
