I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 at 45 years old (T1b (9mm) + high grade DCIS (total size 15mm) N0 (0/2) ER 8/8 ER 8/8 PR HER2 negative) and had a lumpectomy, followed by radiotherapy. I was then put on Tamoxifen, a drug that inhibits oestrogen, because the tumour was oestrogen related.
I found the lump accidentally, although, I usually checked my breasts, but not on that day. I was talking my husband. I bent forward; my right thumb brushed the front of my right breast. That was how I felt the lump! This is why knowing how your breasts look, and what they feel like is crucial (this applies to other parts of your body too). The front of my breasts was and are free from cysts, so I was shocked when I felt the lump.
I called the surgery for an appointment and was told they were fully booked. I told her about the lump in my breast, and she invited me in to wait (always provide information and be assertive). I saw a doctor eventually, who then referred me to hospital. Post-treatment, I realised that I’d been traumatised, and I sought help from cancer charities. Although, there were very few people like me, I embraced the help (see help and accept help).
Sadly, I’ve had a recurrence after 13 years, at 58 years old. (Grade 2 – Invasive Ductal Carcinoma – size 4mm – ER/PR positive – HER2 negative). I am awaiting my operation and treatment plan. One sunny morning in early July, I was in the shower and decided to shave my armpits because I wanted to wear a sleeveless outfit. I reached for the shaver, put my hand on the side of my breast lightly and felt a tiny lump. My heart skipped. I was so shocked and afraid.
I contacted my oncologist and the breast clinic and was advised to call my GP, which I did and was invited to see a doctor who then referred me to a hospital. I had a mammogram, ultrasound followed by a biopsy and received the result a few weeks later. (a reminder of knowing our bodies!)
