Hi @sue417 - The radiation treatment was only on the side with the DCIS (the right side). Your treatment will too!

One thing I was grateful for: Since I had "reconstruction" on BOTH sides to "match" them, the tissue removed from my left breast was also sent to pathology, and it was CLEAR of any cancer. It really made me feel better to know that at least the tissue removed, was free of cancer!

Don't expect the anxiety to go away after the surgery. You are going to feel stressed and anxious for approximately 1 year, maybe longer. Over time, the anxiety will diminish, but it's not really gone; it comes back every time you need to do a new mammogram or MRI. It even has its own name: "scan anxiety".

One thing to remember is that it is OK to not be OK. We all have gone and may be going through these emotions; though each in our own way and time. Don't be afraid to let others know about your emotions. This is a safe place where I am happy to say, you will find people who empathize and understand. There is NO judgment here; no one is going to think any less of you for sharing your fear or anxiety. It's OK to not be OK!

HUGS,
D.