I Have Breast Cancer: Now What?

More than 30 years ago, Betty Rollin, a television correspondent, wrote a groundbreaking book entitled, “First You Cry,” that detailed her experiences after being diagnosed with breast cancer. In the time since this book published, doctors and scientists have made many advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. As more women learned the importance of having annual mammograms, breast cancer began to be diagnosed more often in earlier, more treatable stages. Advances in surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy led to more women being successfully treated for breast cancer. Today more than 1 million Americans can call themselves cancer survivors!

When you first hear the words “breast cancer” from your doctor, you may feel a number of emotions. Like Betty Rollin, your first response may be tears, but anger, denial and other emotional responses may surface. Once you get past these first emotions, you may find yourself ready to get more information and begin planning.

Gathering Information

Your first source of information should be your physicians. While being treated for breast cancer, you may be seeing a number of physicians – a surgeon, an oncologist, a radiation oncologist and others. You may find it difficult to keep up with all the information and questions you have. You can buy a special notebook to take with you to all of your appointments. A divided notebook where you can place information on different topics can help keep you organized.

Before each appointment, take the time to write down questions you want to ask the doctor. Some common questions many patients have for their doctors:

General Questions

• What information can you give me on the type of cancer I have?
• Do I need more tests before starting treatment? If so, what are the tests and what information will they give you?

Treatment Options

• What treatment plan do you recommend and why?
• Can I take some time to decide before starting the treatment? If so, how much time can I take?
• What is the goal of my treatment?
• I’d like to talk to someone else who has been on this treatment. Can you help me find someone?
• Who will be part of my treatment team?
• What are the risks and benefits of the treatments?
• What type of side effects can I expect and how will these affect my daily life?

Surgery

• Do I need surgery?
• What kind of surgery do you recommend and why?
• Can you explain the surgery to me in detail?
• Is there a less invasive option to this surgery?
• Will I have to stay in the hospital?
• When can I return to my usual activities?

Getting a Second Opinion

You may want to consider getting a second opinion from another physician before deciding on a treatment plan. Talking to another physician may give you more information about your cancer and treatment options. You can ask your doctor to recommend someone for you to see about a second opinion or you can call a physician referral program for the name of an appropriate physician.

For your second opinion physician visit, you need to have your medical records including all tests and procedures sent to the doctor’s office, which will mean tests don’t need to be repeated. Take your list of questions with you so you’re prepared to talk to the doctor about your options. Getting a second opinion (or even a third one) doesn’t mean you have to change doctors. It’s just a way of getting important information about your care.

Finding the Support You Need

You may find joining a breast cancer support group will help you as you begin your treatment. These groups give you a way to learn from others who are undergoing treatment, share experiences and share emotions. Participating in a support group can help you feel less alone, learn new coping skills and even make new friends.

For information on the support groups or to get a referral for a second opinion, please call us 866-904-9262. West Boca Medical Center has a number of resources designed to provide you with the tools and support you need before, during and after your breast cancer treatment.