I was a healthy 61 year old vegan who went along for their routine mammogram in 2019 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. (Note: I'm no longer vegan - for the time being!)
They told me it was DCIS. To be frank, I had never even heard of DCIS before, so at the same time as they were advising me to have a mastectomy they were explaining what it was and why it needed to be done. Blown away doesn't cover the turmoil I felt, however, when the shock had dissipated a little, the research began and I found Breast Cancer Now. So glad I reached out because the support I received from BCN and the Someone Like Me team of volunteers, together with my family and friends, truly helped me get through and come out the other side.
I had a nipple sparing mastectomy and sentinel lymph node removal (more new terminology) with immediate implant reconstruction. I wasn't prescribed any drugs or other treatment.
Since my diagnosis I've taken up painting, something that I have never done before. I've discovered that I'm not too bad at it (always wondered where my children got their creative spark from) and absolutely love it! I can lose hours immersing myself in the process - it's a great way for me to relieve any stress I may be feeling. I also love to read and always have a book on the go and for some kind of exercise I like to go walking.
I've been where you are now. I've felt the fear you may be feeling and have experienced the rollercoaster of emotions you're on. I also know how important having support is whilst dealing with everything that goes with diagnosis and treatment.
To that end, if I can be of support to you, I'm here waiting for your email.
You can contact me at melanie@breastcancernow.org.