Making informed decisions has been so important throughout these past seven months and quite obviously – knowledge is key.
Now I’m through all the big stuff, I’m viewing some of the information through different eyes.
As you know, my diagnosis was DCIS – not the standard ‘invasive’ breast cancer and at times I’ve found it a bit hard to explain (& I’m sure some of you have been left scratching your heads!)
The following link provides what I think is a really comprehensive look at DCIS – everything from symptoms to diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.
As it explains clearly – there are many factors to consider. The ones that had a real impact on my course of treatment were;
- Age – 31 (crucial point -under 35 or 40)
- Location – Multifocal
- Grade – Intermediate
- Hormone Receptor Status – Oestrogen positive
- Sentinel Node Biopsy result – no involvement of lymph nodes
It also touches on phantom breast pain. So as you read with amusement – have a laugh at my getting used to the fact there are no nipples, when my body is screaming the left one is still there!
breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis/
Here’s another one;
nbocc.org.au/breast-cancer/about-breast-cancer/what-is-ductal-carcinoma-in-situ-dcis
As far as the big picture goes – I know there are some women I’ve met on my journey who have been on/are currently on a similar ride. So, I thought I’d also include links to some other websites I have found helpful and I’m sure you will too.
To those on the support side – there’s a wealth of information for you to digest as well. One area I’d like to highlight is under the ‘My Directory’ tab at The Warwick Foundation.
mcgrathfoundation.org.au
nbocc.org.au
nbcf.org.au
bcna.org.au
cancerqld.org.au
thewarwickfoundation.org.au
Happy browsing!
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