I have breast cancer

Miscellaneous and Personal Stuff I Must Share
1

For those going, “WTF, isn’t she only 41 or something?” Yes. I am saying the same thing.

For those going, “What the fucking fuck, didn’t she nurse her kids an ungodly amount of time? Isn’t that supposed to be protective?” Yes, I am saying the same thing.

Last Friday when I found out, it felt like a bomb went off in my life. One week later, I’m coping, and it helps a lot that the oncologist is talking about “curing” me, not just “managing” or “treating.” I understand that there are no guarantees, but last weekend I thought I might be in the active process of dying, so this is quite a bit better.

Right now what I really need are positive stories, humor, commiseration, and knowing that people are thinking warm thoughts at me. I feel like the doctors have explained what’s going on and what the best thing to do is very thoroughly and convincingly.

Luckily I have a kickass medical team, including someone on the Duke team that has pioneered HER2+ treatment. (For medical types who are curious, I’ve come up inconclusive on the protein and genetic tests so far.)

I’m in a space where I feel like I’m feeling OK (because I’m comparing it to how I was over the weekend), but then realizing that I’ve lost all planning ability and half of my communication skills, and my OCD rituals are popping out dozens of times a day. I’m trying to give myself time and slack. (And Xanax.)

We aren’t telling the kids till Sunday because of life stuff.

I just scheduled my lumpectomy for 12/29. Holy shit - this is really happening. Then there will be chemo and radiation. I’m scared, but if I get to be with my kids while they grow up, I’ll go through anything.

2

My sister was diagnosed at 27, so I commiserate with your “WTF, isn’t she only 41?!” sentiment.

Positive stuff - it’s scary but you’ll get through it. My sister eventually adopted a “fuck this” attitude and wore her bald head proudly. Try to accept the help people offer when you can. It may feel like you shouldn’t need help because you’re too young and in otherwise good health, but you’ll find that some stuff they want to do for your really does help. And some doesn’t, of course! :smack:

Good luck!

3

I have a close friend who is your age exactly who had a mastectomy about 2 months ago. She is considered completely cancer free and is doing great.
My mother had a lumpectomy 10 years ago and is cancer free.
There are more cures than ever before.
(((((Unauthorized Cinnamon)))))

4

I’m so sorry. If you want warm thoughts, then my thoughts are like a volcano! It sounds like you have great doctors and a good support network, which is fantastic (well, the whole situation sucks, but as “fantastic” as anything can be when you’re talking about cancer).

I wish all the best to you and your family. Kick cancer’s butt!

5

I got nuttin’ to share but hugs and warm thoughts, so there’s a bucketload coming your way.

6

I was diagnosed at 28, and that was over 35 years ago. It stinks, but it’s not as bad as other things. I’m sorry it’s right around the holidays, and I wish you all the luck in the world.

I hate all the pink ribbon hoopla, so I ignore all the awareness activities. I really don’t think of it much anymore.

7

I have a sister in law who, along with her twin, got breast cancer two and three years ago respectively. They are both doing quite well and don’t let it hold then back from anything (they are both very active.) I know this is a ways off, but they both attend the Breast Cancer Walk in DC in October. They return very confident. Strength in numbers, you know!

Hang in, and keep a positive attitude. That’s half the battle!

8

Prayers for your healing, UC. Lots of them.

Regards,
Shodan

9

My mother and grandmother both beat breast cancer. You will too. Sorry that things are going to suck for awhile though. Hang in there!

10

Healing thoughts to you. I’m sorry you’re going through this, but I bet you’ll be just fine in the end.

11

Adding my prayers for your recovery, healing, and mending.

12

Oh, man – so, so sorry this hit you, Cinnamon. I’m sending hugs and best wishes your way.

13

I am so sorry. I hope they caught it early. I hope any treatment you have is highly successful. Hugs.

14

UC, I have nothing to offer you except for The Nicest Place on the Internet.

{{{{Unauthorized Cinnamon}}}}

15

Prayers and positive thoughts your way.

16

Yikes!

My sister was around your age when she was diagnosed, got through treatment without losing her hair, and there’s been zero sign of recurrence for more than 20 years.

17

Good luck - I know you will come out on the “I beat cancer!” side of things!

Best wishes while you deal with it all.

18

So sorry to hear this. My mother’s been through it. I’m glad to hear your physician is optimistic and I hope all turns out well. Don’t worry about your planning and communication skills right now, fighting this problem is a far more important concern right now. And frankly, considering the circumstances your attitude sounds great, you sound like a winner and I’ll bet you win this one too.

19

Best thoughts headed your way.

{{Unauthorized Cinnamon}}

20

I got more of the same; let’s make it a coupla buckets.