Yes, the beginning gets overwhelming at times. Have they done a needle biopsy to tell you what kind of cancer it is? I was surprised to learn that there are over 20 different possible bc diagnoses!! Right now, Dr Google is not your friend. I spent hours pouring over articles and research- and most of it did not even apply to my situation! And then, a lot of it is written in a way that builds anxiety! Once they know what drives your tumor, they will be able to determine the protocols to get you all the best results. One step at a time- we get through this. Do something that makes you smile today! Gentle hugs!

Tina, my heart and prayers go out for you. The early period of knowing you have cancer but not having details about the type, tumor characteristics, genetics, and/or treatment options and recommendations is really difficult. I thought everything would move really fast. I was wrong about that and the waiting (not knowing) added to the stress. Knowledge is power and additional information came with each completed test and appointment. Preliminary biopsy results told me the kind of breast cancer, size of tumor, some characteristics of the tumor. Other results from the pathology report took longer to get. I saw a surgeon and had all the biopsy details explained to me along with my immediate options. I thought I knew what I wanted at that point but was told I needed one more test before I could proceed. More waiting. Meanwhile my brain was in overtime and I was researching everything I could find about breast cancer and treatments.
The good news was, as I got new information I could narrow down the topics that applied to me and that were of interest/relevant to me. From what I have learned, the size of your tumor is encouraging. However there are numerous other variables that make a difference in your options and choices. Your doctors and research will educate and guide you but in the end, it is YOUR choice. Other people may have ideas and opinions about what you SHOULD do. You get to decide what you WILL do.
The details of your tumor and your journey are unique to you. I pray you have good medical care, a strong support system, and find a degree of peace as you go through the processes of treatment and living with and beyond breast cancer.

Tina, Karen is right. Take this one day at a time. See what the doctor's suggest. Write down your questions ahead of time and mark them off to make sure they are answered. You don't know all the information yet, so be patient with results, appointments etc. This is a long journey unfortunately. It's a scary journey. Let those who love you support you. Lean on them. I too wish you well.

Tina
I was in your place last year at this time and it is overwhelming. Don't be afraid to ask questions and to get second opinions. Find Dr's who are willing to listen to you as well as educate you to your treatment options.
I found a wonderful surgeon who helped me build my care team.
My surgeon introduced and told me about using Hormone blockers to hopefully reduce the size of the tumor and
make surgery easier. For me it worked because after 10 months of therapy my tumor reduced about 90% and I am scheduled for a much less invasive surgery on August 5th.
After your biopsy meet with your primary Care Dr. and ask questions about everything on your pathology report that you don't understand.
Take one step at a time and do things to make you happy.
We are all here to help and support you during this chaotic time in your life.
Malama Pono
Malia2

I was diagnosed in May with a 1.1 cm lump through my routine mammogram. Couldn't feel a thing. I'm scheduled for a lumpectomy next Friday. My surgeon said probably no chemo but is wanting me to do radiation. I've done enough research where that is a hard no too. I'm working with a naturopath on the hormone aspect. My only suggestion is do your research like crazy and don't be forced into anything you aren't comfortable with. Best of luck!