The Diagnosis

Jen- 8/1/12

As of a month ago, I was normal.  Just enjoying the freedom of drying up after breast feeding for 10 months, until I noticed a lump on my breast in the shower.  I thought for sure the lump had something to do with breastfeeding, but the hypochondriac inside said to go get it checked out for peace of mind. The following week I went to visit my OBGYN, we agreed that an ultrasound would be the next steps, and I was lucky to get an appointment that same day.  When the tech looked around, she didn't say much, just that the Radiologist would be in to take a look and talk to me.  The radiologist was concerned about the edges of the lump because they did not have defined borders, the lack of 'squish factor,' and other variables.   He recommended doing a mammogram to see if that could tell him any other information about the lump.  One mammogram led to two (both came back normal), then the Radiologist recommended I get a biopsy of the lump to ensure that is was nor cancer.

Later that week, Andrew and I went to see a general surgeon, who gave me a couple biopsy options.  We choose to do the more invasive option (excisional biopsy), just to ensure that 100% was removed and I wouldn't have to worry about it turning into something more later on in life.  At that time, I was confident that we would find out it was left over tissue and a few follow up ultrasounds would be needed over the course of a year.

The following Tuesday, I had my first real surgery ever.  It was kind of creepy, but I made it.  We were supposed to get the pathology report back within 48 hours of surgery.  Thursday came and went, no results.  When I called Friday, the nurse told me that the doctor would be calling me.  I found that odd, but was not sure if that was their procedure or something bad was about to be announced.  Friday at 6 pm, we received a phone call from the surgeon.  Breast Cancer.