Looks like I have breast cancer - would appreciate advice and support.

[anorak]

Well guess what, they day I arrived to live in Bermuda found a lump in my breast. Went to the doctor, got rushed to hospital for mammograms and ultrasound. Been told they suspect "extensive DCIS". Went back in for a core biopsy the day before yesterday and have to go for MRI scan this afternoon, should get the results of these next week sometime.

The hospital is lovely, the staff are lovely, DH's job pays private medical insurance so I am very lucky that I will have good treatment. I've been here two weeks and two days, they have certainly been quick and efficient so far and I'm very pleased to have been offered the MRI.

And for anyone who doesn't know what DCIS is (I didn't), it's a non-invasive form of cancer that tends to confine itself to the area of origin.

Really sorry to hear this anorak and will add my hippy vibes to sophs for you and launch them across the ocean.

Teenagers are a law unto themselves at the best of times - my mum was very poorly when I was 14 and I am ashamed to say I offered very little in the way of support - to be honest I think I was just petrified and avoided her. She doesn't mean it to upset you I'm sure, I regret my reaction to mum terribly now.

Good luck with the MRI - it sounds as though you have the very best treatment available and like you say DCIS is a better deal than some cancers IYSWIM.

Oh thanks for those insights. They really do sound exactly like the way DD operates. I feel a bit better now.

She def has a coping mechanism involving pretence.

Well we are off shopping soon as we still don't have much furniture in this house. Will go to hospital on the way back and then she is supposed to be home in time to babysit tonight anyway so DH and I can go out. I'm so glad it's the weekend.

It's a lovely day here, about 70 degrees and a mixture of sun/cloud. I actually feel very lucky to tell the truth

anorak - dd is hurting really badly the person she loves most in the world is ill.

adolescents don't have the range/experience of emotions to cope.denial is a primeval coping response

importantly try be open, supportive, and aim for something approximating normality. tell her you love her. make sure your DH tells you how much he loves you too

Oh, Anorak, I'm so sorry. Have nothing to add that others haven't already said but couldn't not post.

oh shit anorak .

thinking of you and your family x

Thinking of you, Anorak.
xx

Oh, so sorry to read that anorak. x

Wishing you good health anorak

Oh, I groaned out loud when I read this - I'm so sorry anorak, what a start to your life out there! You sound so positive though which will help enormously.

Sending you healthy vibes

anorak xx

blimey

hope things improve for you

fingers crossed for effective treatment

Anorak - I had this too - last year. I went for ultra sounds, core biopsy and everything was fine! It was fibroendonema (I think!!)

Please try not to worry. It may not be as bad as you think!

Oh Anorak sorry to read this, it sounds as thou things are moving very quickly as far as treatment goes.
your DD is probably in shock and will need time to process the news, i am betting you are in shock too.
sending good wishes and soothing vibes your way.
Jo

anorak-what shite news .

My mum had dcis and had it removed about 3 yrs ago now.She has the all clear and just has regular mammograms now.

Btw I worked at the hospital in Bermuda for a while.
Tis a good hospital,you're in good hands.

Oh bugger .

I'm afraid I know very little about cancer. Are they/you thinking that this is the sort where they whip the lump out and that's it, or is it a bit more complicated than that?

Glad that you at least have good medical care there.

Anorak - what a bloody horrible interruption of your well deserved little trip on Cloud Nine. I'm so sorry...and send big huge hugs to you.

Hold v tight - you've got 'the one to get'...but obviously the treatment is going to be challenging and it's a bit much to be miles from all your friends and those who would be your team to get through it. That's tough.

Let dd find her feet and put down some roots, and she will be the stronger for it in the end.

You're a toughie, Ms Anorak, and you will get through this - make sure to keep having your relaxation times and enjoying what there is t be enjoyed.

Lots of love to you.

Oh no! Non-invasive cancer? Does that mean it is fully treatable? I found some info here but I think it depends on what type you have. I guess you'll know more next week.

It's every woman's worst nightmare and I'm so so sorry that it had to happen to you. Wishing you lots of strength and luck.

So sorry to hear this - hope you get postive news/info next week. Best wishes.

Oh I am so sorry you have this to cope with at the start of your adventure. Wishing you very good luck dealing with it.
I second the comments about your dd being in denial and just blocking it. I was the most horrid selfish teenager. I am still ashamed. If my Mum had been ill I would have immediately thought OMG my Mum is ill, poor me . If it is any consolation I think I am a good daughter to her now and I have always loved her more than anything. She will be scared too and not want to show you that face as she is trying to prove her 15 year old independance from you. I needed to get past the difficult teenage years to admit I still needed and wanted my parents. I hope this make some sort of sense....

sorry to hear this and wishing you all the best.

So very sorry to hear this Anorak.

Am pathetically devoid of any advice but sending you all the support in the world.

So sorry Anorak. Don't worry about anything other than your health, the kids, the lot will muddle through and it'll be okay.

f*ck

THinking positive thoughts x