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💗 February 2026 Surgery Roll Call—Let’s Do This Together 💗

moderators
moderators Posts: 9,879

If surgery is on your calendar this February—lumpectomy or mastectomy—you’ve found your people. This thread is your meetup spot: a place to show up exactly as you are, whether you’re feeling steady, scared, curious, or all of the above. We’re here to swap questions, share nerves, trade tips, and offer the kind of support that only comes from people who truly get it.

And if surgery is already in your rearview mirror—please jump in. Your real-life wisdom matters. The little things you learned, what surprised you, what helped you heal (body and mind)—those insights can make a huge difference for someone counting down the days.

✨ Ways to join the conversation:
• Drop your surgery date so we can surround you with encouragement
• Share which surgery you’re having (only what you’re comfortable with)
• Check back in after surgery to let us know how you’re doing—your update might be exactly what someone else needs to hear

As you prep, take advantage of our Shopping / Packing / To-Do List for Surgery & Recovery, and explore the Surgery section of our site for clear, practical guidance on:
• Types of breast surgery
• Smart questions to ask your care team
• Navigating lumpectomy vs. mastectomy decisions
• What surgery day and recovery are really like

If you’re looking for even deeper connection, our Virtual Support Groups are always open—for those in treatment and beyond.

You don’t have to carry this alone. This space is steady, supportive, and ready for you—before surgery, on the day itself, and through recovery. We’ve got you. 💪💞

— The Mods

Comments

  • dnanab
    dnanab Posts: 2

    Hello, I am new to this site. I was diagnosed with IDC stage 1 Grade 2 ER/PR+ HER2- at the end of January, I am scheduled to have a lumpectomy, sentinel lymph nodes, and possible axillary nodes, on February 24. I’m feeling ok about everything. My surgeon said that I have the best case scenario with a difficult diagnosis.

  • jules54
    jules54 Posts: 5

    Me too! Same diagnosis. Waiting patiently for my surgery date, hopefully Feb. 23.

  • moderators
    moderators Posts: 9,879
    edited February 1

    @jules54 and @dnanab, welcome to our February surgery club! We're sorry for the reasons that have led you here, but we're glad to welcome you into this supportive space. đź’›

    The following resources may help you both understand more about lumpectomy and axillary node surgeries and what to expect before, during, and after the procedures:

    https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/lumpectomy

    Lymph Node Removal: What to Expect

    Sending strength and courage to you and everyone else on this thread.

    -The Mods

  • jules54
    jules54 Posts: 5

    Thank you!

  • amerli
    amerli Posts: 25

    Hi all,

    Things are moving fast for me which is both scary and helpful. Dx last week with IDC TN stage 1b grade 3. Surgery is one week away on Feb. 11. Opting for a single mastectomy with aesthetic flat closure. Sentinel lymph node biopsy also. Please wish me luck and share your best surgery tips.

  • Good luck on your surgeries! In my experience (lumpectomy with two lymph nodes also removed), I was glad to get this part done, and remove the offending cancer out of my body. Hope your surgeries go smoothly and you have easy recoveries. Let others help you and let your body do its healing. Focus on getting thru this part and taking care of your body and mind.

    I think my prep for surgery was straightforward, they give you instructions about eating, drinking, and when to stop prior to surgery. The anesthesiologist gave me a scopolamine patch to help with post surgery nausea, and it worked really well for me. I used ice packs which were helpful for the soreness post surgery but I found the pain to be pretty manageable with the Tylenol they recommended.

    You got this! đź’—

  • amerli
    amerli Posts: 25

    Hello February surgery pals,

    I just wanted to let you know that my mastectomy this week went well. They also took 3 lymph nodes. I am back home recovering. The pain has been very manageable with Tylenol and the drain isn’t really annoying but that’s probably because I only have one. I do feel a sense of relief to have this part done. I am sending you all encouragement for your surgeries!

  • moderators
    moderators Posts: 9,879
    edited February 13

    Hi @amerli , thank you so much for coming back to update us. We’re super glad to hear your surgery went well. 💛

    Wishing you smooth healing and easy drain removal. Please keep us posted as you continue to rest and regain strength.

    Hugs,

    The Mods

  • kathy108
    kathy108 Posts: 1

    Hello, I'm due for surgery coming up Thursday feb 19 (Korea time) for a unilateral mastectomy for HER2 positive on my left breast and a possible auxiliary lymph node. I am based in Seoul S. Korea and feel the need to connect with women in English as that's not easy to find here for support. I am glad to find this portal, and to know I'm not alone on this journey. Thank you for being here.

  • amerli
    amerli Posts: 25

    Hi @kathy108 you are definitely not alone. I had a unilateral mastectomy on the left side three days ago. I am home and managing well. I will be thinking of you on Thursday. I know how lonely this can all feel, so please don’t hesitate to send me a private message if you have any questions or need any support.