June 7, 2009 – Ok, this is what know. I have is called Invasive Ductal Carcinoma? It is not estrogen fed, therefore it is aggressive and harder to treat. I already like the nurse I’ve spoken to. She talks to me straight up and I respect that. It is a serious dose of reality I was never expecting. Anyhow, read on…..
Apparently Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) is a very common type of breast cancer. It starts developing in the milk ducts of the breast, but breaks out and invades surrounding tissues. Unlike DCIS version, which is a non-invasive cancer, IDC is not a well-contained cancer. It has the potential to invade my lymph and blood systems, spreading cancer cells to other parts of your body (holy cow!). If this IDC spreads beyond its original site, it will be called metastasized.
Should I feel more comforted knowing that Invasive Ductal Carcinoma is a Common Breast Cancer Diagnosis? It is the most commonly diagnosed breast cancer accounting for about 8 out of 10 of all invasive breast cancers. What?? Are you kidding me?? My thoughts race as I wonder, what did I eat, where did I live, and how can this be so prevalent. The lump in my throat tells me this is the same mutant gene my mother and sister have. On the up side, my crazy beautiful sister Pam did say she’d let me borrow her fake boob. I almost fell on the floor laughing. I love her
OK, now for the education of this monster. Ladies – listen up! This homework takes only minutes, but it can save your life. Mine is buried deep in my chest, so I never felt a lump. Do your monthly exams and please get the BRACA (?) test. It will help determine if you have this cancer causing gene. With this cancer, time is critical!
Keep in mind that most lumps will be fibrocystic and no big deal – it’s the other 20% that is scary. If it is caught early, your chances of survival are very good.
I don’t what stage I am at, nor do I yet know my prognosis, but from my standpoint, I feel I caught it early. Doctors should start talking prognosis of my future outlook for survival shortly – probably this week and I’ll post it here. I’m still having a hard time saying it without tears, but as each day goes by, I become more determined to fight this and get it out of my body.
