What to know right after diagnosis - inhale!

While a breast cancer diagnosis is life altering, it is not an emergency!
You have time to understand and research your options.

I just wanted the cancer out, and almost consented to a major surgery without researching options that my first surgeon didn’t offer. It was unbelievably hard to say I needed a second opinion, knowing I was delaying surgery that would Just Get It Out! The second opinion was absolutely the best thing for me.

Also, an oncologist might be nationally/world renowned, that doesn’t mean they’re a good fit. Communication, empathy and respect are important & you have to be comfortable - It is a long term relationship, and again, not an emergency.

I do appreciate that my first oncologist’s research likely minimized my treatment side effects, but she dismissed my concerns, specifically about potential side effects. Fortunately I was able to transfer my care to another team that understands my concerns.

Know that you don’t need to decide anything right now … inhale, ask questions and research.