Newly Diagnosed with Breast Cancer?
If you’ve been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, you are likely dealing with a wide range of emotions. You may be overwhelmed, confused, angry, or even numb. No matter how you feel, know that it’s normal and you will get through this time. The professionals at Rocky Mountain Breast Specialists (RMBS) – the dedicated breast cancer team at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers – are here to help you through every step of your cancer journey, both physically and emotionally.
At RMBS, no one goes through cancer alone. Our experts not only offer leading-edge treatments, but are passionate about helping you navigate through the process. This means we are here to answer questions, offer guidance, and listen to your concerns. Our team is committed to supporting you in recovery and beyond.
One of your first steps after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is to choose the individuals on your care team. A medical oncologist who specializes in breast cancer and a breast surgeon are a good place to start. You can access our many dedicated and compassionate breast specialists here.
Do You Need A Breast Cancer Specialist?
A medical oncologist who specializes in breast cancer care is an ideal team leader for your breast cancer journey. What sets our breast specialists apart?
Do You Also Need to Choose a Breast Cancer Surgeon?
Find out how a breast cancer surgeon can help you choose the right procedure for you with the best possible cosmetic result.
Free Guide for Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Patients
Understanding Breast Cancer
Every person undergoing breast cancer care at RMBS will receive a personalized treatment plan based on a number of different factors. Below are several important aspects included in your breast cancer treatment plan.
What are the Types of Breast Cancer?
The specialist will discuss whether your breast cancer has hormone or HER2 protein receptors that make it grow. Understand more about the types of breast cancer.
What is the Extent of My Breast Cancer?
What are the Treatments for Breast Cancer?
Should You Consider a Breast Cancer Clinical Trial?
Getting Ready for Your First Appointment
The days after learning you have breast cancer can be especially overwhelming. Not only are you dealing with the emotions of the diagnosis, but are likely managing a lot of new information and tasks. Here are a few tips to help you keep track of important details:
Keep a Notebook
Keeping all your cancer-related information in one place can be incredibly useful and empowering. Knowing you can access important details easily and quickly can reduce stress and help keep you on top of your care.
To start, get a notebook and begin recording as much information as possible. This can include:
- Care team names and contact information
- Appointment times and locations
- Notes on how you’re feeling
- Summary of medical calls and visits
- Details on what medicines or supplements you’re taking
- Questions or observations regarding appointments and procedures.
Don’t forget to bring the notebook to office visits and keep it handy during phone calls with your care team. Try to put a date on everything you write down to keep your thoughts and notes organized.
If a written notebook doesn’t work for you, consider using audio recordings or jotting down notes on your phone. Whatever way you choose, keeping information in one place can help you juggle the many details of treatment and communicate well with your doctors.
Ask Questions to Help You Make Decisions
Write down a list of questions for your doctor or care team and bring them to each appointment. A list can help you remember things you want to discuss. Some ideas include:
- Is my breast cancer hormone-positive? How does this impact my treatment?
- Do I need to adjust my lifestyle (diet, exercise, rest, work) during treatment?
- How often will I need to come to the cancer center for treatments?
- Will surgery come before or after other treatments are given?
- What can I do to prepare myself for breast cancer surgery?
- Is there any suspected lymph node involvement?
- What time frame do I have to make treatment decisions?
- How should I prepare for breast reconstruction?
