Just diagnosed, what can I expect?
I'm 48 and got the results back a few days ago…2.2 cm tumor left side ER+ PR+ HER- ki67 20.6% with atleast one confirmed positive node. I’m seeing the surgeon in a few days to discuss treatment. There is so much information and i don’t even know what questions to ask. My first grandbaby is due in a few weeks, I love my job and I was planning on starting grad school program this fall. Now i don’t know how or if I’m going to be able to show up for these things. What can i expect?
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Hi @janak2200, I’m sorry that you have to join us here but this is a good site for information and support. A breast cancer diagnosis temporarily disrupts your life but things eventually work out. Even though you have the results of the biopsy there are still questions which can only be answered after surgery that will determine the details of your treatment.
If you have 1 -3 positive lymph nodes an Oncotype DX genomic test will be done to see if chemo is recommended. With 4 or more nodes you usually have chemo. With any number of positive nodes radiation is done although the extent of it depends on the number of nodes. This can affect what kind of surgery you opt to have. Radiation is done with all lumpectomies but is also done for those having a mastectomy with positive nodes. This can influence the type of reconstruction you might choose if you opt for it.
Depending on the circumstances the surgeon you see in a couple of days may order further imaging and/or genetic testing. These results can influence the type of surgery recommended. It’s hard not knowing exactly what lies ahead.
Once a treatment plan is in place things do get better. Initially things move more slowly than you think they should so chances are you will be able to see your grandchild early on. Some people work through treatment with limited time off while others take a leave of absence. You will get through this like the rest of us did even if you don’t know what to plan for yet. Congratulations on the new grandbaby and all the best going forward.
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Thank you so much, this is incredibly helpful. No one close to me has had cancer and this is all new to me.
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