Re: I just found out I have breast cancer
 

another er/pr neg and her 2 pos girl here. I needed to have a mastectomy after my lumpectomy and 12 pos nodes. After my mastectomy the path report was positive for BC in my ducts, lobes, nipple , with lots of vascular invasion. I wasn't given the option of a bilat, as they started me on Dose Dense chemo very quickly therafter. Once my chemo and rads were done( after 6 mos) I insisted on having the remaining breast removed and at the same time have reconstruction. Turned out the " good " breast was loaded with atypia and hyperplasia. My docs actually told me " you were right to push for the removal of the other breast" . erceptin was very very easy for me. anyway that was over 7 yrs ago and I am extremely happy and feel blessed erveryday.

Re: I just found out I have breast cancer
 

Well I had my double done 2 weeks ago. I had 4 drains. 2 were taken out after one week and the last two yesterday. Wow having those out has helped me feel better. I still feel very tight like I have a tight rubber band on. I will be starting chemo soon. I have heard about hair loss but do you also lose finger nails? I think that would hurt a lot. I think I am support to get radiation. I have been reading that you get burned with that. Is this temporary like a sunburn?

Re: I just found out I have breast cancer
 

Below are two links about side effects. You can use the 'Search' button to locate more discussions.

http://her2support.org/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=55739&highlight=fingernail

http://her2support.org/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=23696&highlight=real+perceived+He rceptin+side+effect

My fingernails showed dark spot coming from the direction of the nail root. I. never did do anything special and was working full-time and doing everything normally. I'd found that walking (30 minutes everyday) does wonders.

The radiation does burn a little bit after a couple of weeks. I was given a lotion sample and then purchased my own. Everything has a remedy. Just be sure to mention it to the nurse practitioner...

Hang in there. Your strength will gradually come back...

Re: I just found out I have breast cancer
 

Cricket...you are strong and brave! Wtg!!! You did it! What a wonderful example of strength you are to your grandkids!
Nora

Re: I just found out I have breast cancer
 

Cricket, I too had a double mastectomy (with reconstruction) and the tightness was obvious to me right after I came out of anesthesia. For the longest time, whenever I would get in the shower, I'd always think I forgot to take my tight bra off. Then I'd look and realize I don't even have one on and haven't worn a bra in a long long time. It's been over 5 years and still down't wear a bar and the tightness is really not as bad as it was originally. Stretching exercises are helpful, but make sure to check with your doctor before starting any on your own right now. Physical Therapy was very helpful to me. Sending healing and recovery wishes your way.