WA, diagnosed age 37
‘I have found it to be not only a physical but a psychological trauma.
Just over two
weeks ago I had my right breast removed due to DCIS. I think I was
still in a state of shock, having only been diagnosed the week
previously, after a core biopsy was performed, due to the findings on a
mammogram. My GP really needs to take the credit. During my yearly pap
smear and breast examination he decided he was not overly happy with
what he felt, which may be small pieces of calcification in my breast.
He ordered mammograms and ultra sounds. Upon receipt of the results he
referred me to the Breast Assessment Centre for the core biopsy - not a
pleasant procedure. Within five days of the biopsy I was seen by a
wonderful doctor who as gently as she could, advised me of the results
and the possibility of me losing my breast. Two days later I was
sitting with the surgeon who advised that as the DCIS was too large to
allow for breast conservation, that, yes, I would definitely lose my
breast. However, as the cancer had not reached the invasive stage, they
would be able to remove all the cancer and not have to take lymph
nodes, meaning no radio/chemotherapy would be required.
I guess I
was still in a state of shock, but the excellent news about completely
removing the cancer and no requirement for further treatment overtook
the loss of my breast - for the time.
As my
physical recovery progresses, I am allowing myself to grieve a little
for a part of my womanhood. The small things - like various pieces of
clothing I once wore are not now wearable (not that I had big breasts,
or an enormous cleavage!), the soft prosthesis I presently have tends
to have a mind of its own and creeps up toward my neck and just the
general misshapen appearance I see when I look in the mirror. As a
single mother of two young adults, I also worry about meeting and
having a partner in my life. I mean, how does one tell someone they
only have one breast? I just hope I may one day meet the man of my
dreams who will understand.
My very
special and wonderful group of friends have been incredibly supportive
and caring - but I am getting a little cross with everyone saying ‘well
at least you don't have cancer anymore!' Yes, they are right, but I
also don't have a right breast!
I have
written this in the hope that there may be other women who have been
diagnosed with breast cancer, but due to catching it early have had
their breast removed but without need for further treatment. I guess
most times we hear of breast cancer and, up until now, I too thought it
required ongoing treatment.
I have found
it to be not only a physical but a psychological trauma. I would be
interested to hear from other women who have undergone the same
procedure.
Last Updated 7 December 2007
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Madaleine Byers 
