Probably cancer

[Confuzzleduzzled]

I had a mammogram a few weeks ago that showed something and then a biopsy 10 days ago. Hospital have now arranged a follow up appointment with a consultant. They also called today to check I had the appointment and the nurse mentioned that the letter said I would need a wide local excision. She couldn’t tell me anything else over the phone but from googling it looks like it is cancer and then I would also need radiotherapy.

My mum is extremely worried (more than I am) and I don’t know whether to tell her this half bit of information or wait until I have all the info at the appointment in 2 weeks. My feeling is that incomplete info is worse than no info and that she will just worry more. My dad has booked a few days away for them to take her mind off it. They’ll be back in time for the appointment.

Also I have teenage DDs who have anxiety issues. One is due to take GCSEs in a few weeks so I’m not sure how to tell them but will definitely wait till I have all the info before I do.

What would you do?

Don’t tell them yet as you dont know much. It may just be a cyst. If it’s not, tell them when you have news to tell. Dont tell your dd yet if she has exams. Have you a partner? Sorry you’re going through this.

I do have a partner though we don’t live together. He’s been supportive so far and offered to come to the appointment.

I think I’ll tell him but not my parents yet. And definitely not DDs. No idea how to actually tell them if it is cancer.

I waited until I had all the information about whether or not it was actual cancer (it was, breast), and then I told my adult children - we have always had an open and honest policy so that is what we do.

Sorry about your diagosis, cancer is awful but it's not all gloomy even terminal cancers with modern medicine can be managed as a chronic condition for many years.

Thinking of you.

I was in your position 4 years ago. I chose not to say anything to family until I had all the information and felt I could confidently answer their questions.
Ultimately I did get a cancer diagnosis, but after a wide
local excision and five sessions of radiotherapy I’ve been on really good form ever since.
I really hope you get good news and definitely think that managing the sharing of information on your terms is the best way to handle it.