I was diagnosed stage iv automatically due to lymph node involvement. Then with my first PET Scan it turned to metastatic as it went to my spine. Scary, yes, but I learned to deal with it and my emotions. Stage iv is "treatable," so I continue to enjoy my life. We only have one life to live, so enjoy it to the fullest. Cancer will not weigh me down... I am alive!

I always say I might be a Stage IIIc but, I FEEL like a Stage 1. Big girl panties sure help... LOL

I was told my cancer could not be staged until they actually did the pathology of the tumor after my surgery. I agree there is a big difference between Stage II and IV. It is important that you know in order to look at your treatment options and make educated decisions on your future. Yes, we fight. There is no option.

In my case, I was told mine was Stage 2 before the surgery. That changed to Stage 3 post op because the entire tumor (invasive lobular carcinoma) did not scan entirely on the couple of mammograms I had prior to surgery. This was because the tumor had a bunch of tentacles or veins which were not visible until surgery so the increase in the size of the tumor caused the stage to change. Essentially, I am saying that the stage is just a number affixed which does reflect a size but does not mean much else. Having the tumor successfully removed and total recovery, to me, means more than what size mine was initially. I know when you think Stage 4 that sounds so scary but really if it's going to make you more apprehensive try to think positive thoughts and let the Lord know how much you need Him. He is right there walking beside you so just take His hand as you journey. You will not be alone, He is there with you and will always be. Lean on the Lord and trust in Him completely. I am praying for you!

@A MyBCTeam Member - I feel that breast cancer is already a trying time and I'm sure that you are at your wits end waiting to see where you stand. Talk to your oncology team and let them know how you feel about the physical and emotional process that you are going through. Your team is there to support you in your journey and make you feel secure in the fact that they are there to help you and make you healthy again. Make sure you let them know that you want to feel that way. Hugs, Lisa

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