Hi Janeylou. I know how you feel. I'm 51 and received a recall letter on Christmas Eve (great timing) saying an abnormality was found on my first screening mammogram. My clinic appt is 5 Jan and I can think of nothing else at the moment. I'm trying to keep distracted. My teenage daughter and husband saw me open the letter but I haven't told my teenage son or anyone else apart from my best friend. Kind of want to know what is actually the outcome before I worry other people. Will tell my boss (she is lovely) though as need time off work for the appt. My Mum and her mother (so my maternal grandmother) both had breast cancer. My grandmother died years ago from another cancer in the end and my Mum is doing fine, four years on. I had three (one per year) mammograms up to the age of 50 on the familial screening programme (which were all clear)but the last one was nearly two years ago (I'm 52 in February). When I  had the recall letter last week I then took a close look at my breasts as I hadn't noticed any lumps (I am a bit rubbish at checking though) and was horrified to see a considerable area of dimpling/puckering under my left inner breast - quite obvious lines and indents when I raise my arms. I have no idea how long they have been there as I don't go around with my arms in the air staring at my boobs Kind of wish I had now though. I can really understand what you are feeling and the waiting is awful as every scenario goes through your head. All I can say to you (and me!) is that most cases referred aren't cancer so let's hold onto that thought!! Good luck for tomorrow. X

Hi 

Thank you soo much for your reply. I am so sorry you too are also waiting to be seen at the clinic. It really is horrible isnt it just waiting. My mind just will not settle and keep thinking of the worst case . 

I am so sorry to hear about your mum and grandmother. Really glad your mum is doing well. 

I have only told a couple of people like you I need to know if its anything serious. 

It was so lovely to hear from you thank you so much. I will let you know. 

Good luck for your appointment I will be thinking of you 

Xxx 

Hi Janeylou

yes do let me know how you get on tomorrow. The waiting is awful. It does help "talking" on here as those in a similar position know the range of emotions. First time I have posted. Will be thinking of you tomorrow. Take care x

Thank you so much , yes it really does help. Thank you again I really appreciate it 

You take care xxx

Hi Kiwirunner, just wanted to let you know....my circumstances very similar to you, age 53 years, referral letter arrived the day before Christmas Eve.....not sure how I've got through Xmas as no extended family around to keep me busy as usual, due to their health issues (my sister has secondary breast cancer) Just myself, hubby and teen daughter, who, as you, saw me open referral letter, which I managed to play down.

Attended my appointment first thing today (my birthday) I was told that there was a change in one of my breasts so I had a more detailed mammogram and an ultrasound. After the ultrasound the consultant told me that I am absolutely fine and can go back to three yearly mammograms. 
 

Just wanted to give you some hope and let you know that things can still be okay even though you might think the worst....I found it so difficult to.stay positive. I was sooo scared, i am a bit of a glass half full person. It's awful having waited over Christmas, I can't tell you how stressed I've been. Good luck with your appointment and fingers crossed for you xx

Hi Mumofteen thanks so much for posting your experience. Funny isn't it when you realise how similar our experiences can be. So relieved for you - that is a good birthday present. Phew! So good to know on the day too. Stories like this really help. I dreamt last night I had Stage 3 cancer. Can't handle more nights like that so Tuesday can't come fast enough! Feeling bolstered by your news. Thanks again for sharing and enjoy the lighter feeling you will now have. Fab news x

Hi Janeylou I have been thinking of you today so it is great to hear how you got on. That sounds pretty encouraging to me re the outcome and with them already thinking the other lump is hormonal that sounds much less scary. It's human nature that you won't fully relax until you get that 4 week check but it's a promising start. Fingers crossed for a second all clear!

Have a good evening x

Thank you I am feeling much better tonight. Let me know how you get on next week. Will be thinking of you. I really thought worst case and had good news and I am sure you will too xxx 

Stay strong, i know it's easy for me to say....please let us know how you get on xxx