Don't know where to turn - breast lump referral

Hi everyone,

I don't know where to start to be honest but I'm going out of my mind and really trying not to.

I found a lump in my right breast on the inner side inbetween the breast bone and nipple about 8 weeks ago now. I read up and decided to go through my cycle as I know some lumps can disappear. This hasn't and I'm fairly sure it's grown too.

It took me two weeks to get a gp appointment which was middle of last week and I've had a call today to say my breast screening appointment will be next Tuesday. I'm considering going private but can't really afford too, it's just that the worry is getting the better of me. 

I wouldn't feel so concerned but I've not really felt well for a few months in myself. I've had ongoing problems with my chest and a persistent pain in my right shoulder when I breathe in which is now in my breast too. I've had a chest x-rayast last week so atleast that's done but i am really struggling with the wait. I'm sure I'm not the only one though.

I hadn't told anyone about the lump either until the day I saw the gp when I thought I should tell my husband. We've also told his mum too. 

Have/did you all tell family and friends when you were just waiting and it could still be nothing?

I'm toying between telling people and not telling anyone. It's a total head messer isn't it x

No idea whether I'm posting this in the right place sorry. 

  • Hi I can totally related to everything you have said in your post. I am waiting my breast clinic appointment which is next Tuesday. I have told my husband but nobody else. we are trying to protect our loved ones from worry but it is hard. It's okay to be scared and be emotional about what's going on. I am distracting myself arts and crafts tv watching favourite tv programmes. Even getting lots of housework done. Not so bad when at work kept busy. I hope all goes well with your appointment.

  • Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I'm sorry you're here too but thank you for sharing that you are feeling similar.

    It's hard isn't it. I've had my son off school today so he's been a good distraction and I have plenty of housework. It's constantly in the back of my mind though. 

    I hope your appointment goes well too x

  • I think writing down your feelings helps especially when we aren't talking about them to others. I have been listening to loud music and dancing to my favourite songs which is helping as well. Just have to wait and see. I hope all goes well. There are a lot of supportive,  strong amazing people on this chat group that have been through a lot and are willing to help. Take care.

  • Yes that's a good point about writing feelings down and great tip about dancing and music too.

    I've been reading through some of the posts and it seems supportive which is nice. I have spent the last few days wanting to talk to people who don't know me, just for some understanding.

    Is your appointment in the morning or afternoon on Tuesday? I was called today about mine so should receive a letter tomorrow confirming it all. Fingers crossed for you x

  • My appointment is early in the morning getting a lift in to hospital from my husband who managed to get a day off work  which is great saves getting a very early bus. Got to get mammogram first then go the breast clinic.Take care 

  • Hi

    My appointment is next Tuesday too. It is always at the back of your mind, I too do crafts and anything to take my mind off the wait. It's scary isn't it.

    Take care x

  • That's good that your appointment is early and your husband can be with you. Mine is in the morning too thankfully although I'm not sure what order they do anything in. My husband is coming, I did think I could go by myself but the more the days are going on the more anxious I'm getting. I've been up since 6am feeling like my chest is tighter than normal. The waiting for something like this is hard isn't it. Hope you're ok x

  • Hi Vixy,

    Thank you for replying, it is scary isn't it. I'm really trying not to think it will be bad news but I always prepare for the worst and hope for the best in every situation so finding myself going through all kinds of scenarios. 

    Is your appointment early? I had a phonecall to book mine and should receive my letter confirming it today x

  • Hi

    my appointment is 10:10am. I don't have anyone coming with me at the moment. My husbands says he can't get the time off and I'll be alright, doesn't understand. My family live far away, will have to be strong. 

    Xx

  • Sorry your hubby isn't being supportive. Do you have a close friend who might come along? 

    My appointment is 10.15am so we'll be at them at the same time x