I am new here looking for support.
My name is Rachel I am 33 was diagnosed in May 2023 Stage 2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. Estrogen positive, progesterone positive, HER2 positive. I went through a needle biopsy, port placement, and a lumpectomy of the right breast. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and still receiving immunotherapy. Lupron shot every 3 months. Letrozole every night. I am afraid it may have returned in my left breast I will find out in January 2026. I really need support. I am experiencing lots of anxiety over this scare. If it has returned I’m getting a mastectomy. I am tired of dealing with this. I just recently started working a part time job for the first time since this diagnosis because I was denied disability multiple times. Soon as things started going great, I lost both my grandmothers within two weeks of each other in October and November of this year. I am grieving and now battling this constant worry of it returning. I am trying to stay positive but it is very hard to do. I am a young woman supposed to be enjoying life at this period in my lifetime I didn’t ask for any of this. I am angry. I am returning to work the 30th and I am so excited for that to get my mind off of all of this. Thank you for this website and lovely community!
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Hi @rachelwhitt1992, Condolences on the loss of your grandmothers. Unfortunately anxiety about recurrence is not unusual. Hopefully your left breast will be clear. Because of "scanxiety" many people do opt for a mastectomy if another issue is found. You are going through a lot so it might be helpful to see a counselor who has experience working with cancer survivors. Ask your oncology team or PCP if they can refer you. Also, some people find it helpful to take medication if their worry interferes with daily life. I found work very helpful in taking my mind off my worries and seeing myself as a person making a contribution to society rather than just a patient. All the best.
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