Sharing my Her2+ Breast Cancer Diagnosis Story at 35 years old

This March I found out that I have Breast Cancer, and today I go for my first round of chemo. In this video I discuss how we found out, some of the testing and appointments along the way to a treatment plan.
If you are looking for places to give in a meaningful way:
This website lists charitable organizations within Canada
cbcn.ca/en/Facing_Financial_I...
and this link here brings your to charitable organizations in the US, to aid with the financial burden of facing breast cancer
www.breastcancer.org/managing...
If you would like to follow my blog during this time it is:
www.yarnlab.ca/
You can also find me on instagram
/ yarnlab
/ turner_sr

[@debbieking3442]

Praying this will give some one here strength and hope. I too 16 years survivor Her2 positive. ❤❤❤❤

[@josephinesealey9332]

Keep a positive attitude . I’m 72. I had the same type of cancer. I was misdiagnosed and I called the cancer center here in Florida. In 6 weeks it went from 0 to stage 3. I started my chemo in February I had my surgery in July 26. I am having radiation and targeted chemo now but I AM CANCER FREE based on the pathology results. You can conquer this. Keep your faith, keep exercising, reach out to all your friends for prayers and positive thoughts. Your family will be your pillar, hold on to God, he will send you all the angels you need as doctors, nurses and friends. You will look beautiful with no hair. Stay busy, listen to audiobooks and beautiful music and exercise when you can…. God bless you and lots of luck. ❤

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thank you so much for sharing your story, I hope the rest of your treatments go as smoothly as possible. I am so lucky and grateful for all of my support systems, thank you so much for your well wishes!!

[@ggunga7764]

Thank you for giving me hope

[@CaptTP]

I let mine go too…for a whole year…same as you…lumpy fibrous breasts and finally had pain rolling over onto my breast which felt different and drove me to go see the doctor. I was 48 at time of diagnosis in 2013 and mammograms in Canada 11 years ago didn’t start til age 50. I had an ultra sound first and the technician said, YOU need a mammogram which I had same day! Then biopsy, then came the news from the surgeon who didn’t beat around the bush and said we don’t need to consult with oncology because we know it’s cancer, Stage 3, er, pr + AND Her 2+. I did chemo (red devil didn’t work for me), surgery, radiation, 1 year of herceptin chemo and 5 years tamoxifen. I had a bilateral mastectomy…I was scared and I didn’t want to take any chances and I’m still here! Thank you for sharing your story. I wish you all the best and just trust the process. That’s what I did and I’m grateful for our medical system.

[@catkotaka]

In May I will be 13 years NED from Her 2+ breast cancer. No risk factors when I was diagnosed at age 39. I’ve had full genetic screening and no markers. Stay positive and keep fighting. We can and do survive this!

[@amaliefedor2793]

I was 32 when I was diagnosed with stage 3a breast cancer. Fortunately I had access to excellent care at Washington University at bjc in st louis. Mine was HER positive and I was one of the first recipients of herceptin. Cancer free at age 66. This will get better, trust your doctors!

[@katrekaradeniz7943]

Was yours hormone positive too

[@rachelleb8544]

Me also Any T-dm1

[@dianeb4127]

Hi Sara, I’m glad to have come upon your video! I had the same cancer but in my left breast, diagnosed March 2017 at age 55. The best advice a now cancer free friend said is, do what they tell you and, like climbing a mountain, don’t look at the top; only one step at a time, with your head up 😊 of course. Being a devout Catholic, I went to the foot of the cross. If Jesus can die on a cross, I can do this (but I did get very helpful sleep and anxiety meds). 😊 If you can, live each moment, live ‘in’ the moment, like the treasures they are. Love Diane

[@jubygurl2590]

I am about 1 month out from a her2 + diagnosis ( March 18th). I just finished my 1st infusion and so far so good. I too find comfort in watching these types of videos. It makes me feel that I'm not alone. I hope you continue updating on your progress and success! I will feel like I have a friend on this journey with me.

[@Bizeknitting]

I’m so sorry you have to go through this, especially at a young age. I was so happy to see you saw what a gift Her2+ is because of the targeted treatment. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Her2+ a year ago so Herceptin for life. I’m cancer free a year later and doing great! No evidence of cancer. A video like yours would have been so helpful to me a year ago. I will keep you in my thoughts. You are strong and you will come out stronger.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks for your thoughts and words. One of the best things from sharing this video is the response from other breast cancer survivors, it really gives you a wonderful sense of how this is not something only I am going through alone. Great to hear you responded so well to your treatments!

[@NehaKumari-hr6yj]

Can you please tell me your cancer also spread in bones and now you are cancer free???@Bizeknitting

[@janicenice3313]

Hi Sarah, firstly I’m sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I am a Triple Positive (ER/PR+ & HER2+) breast cancer survivor from 2016. I was 41 when I was diagnosed and your story sounded so much like mine. I too always had ‘fibrous’ breasts and they would often feel lumpy each month during my cycle. Any time I found something concerning, I’d get it checked out with my GP. I too live in Canada..BC to be exact. Each time I’d have my physical or if I was concerned about a lump, my GP would say it was nothing and it was normal fibrous tissue. Fast toward to Dec 2015 and it was a week before Christmas. I had found a harder pea sized lump in my left breast about a week prior and decided to get it checked. My GP was on a medical leave at the time so I saw a locum who was filling in for him. She did a full breast exam and had felt the lump that I found. She said she wasn’t concerned and that it felt like normal fibrous tissue. But to be thorough and to give me peace of mind, she said she would order an ultrasound. Because it was so close to Christmas, she thought it wouldn’t happen until January.. she told me not to worry, enjoy Christmas with my family and wait for the hospital to call. Fast forward to January 2016.. got a call for my ultrasound and went in to the hospital to have it done. During that appointment, the tech could palpate the lump but wasn’t able to pick it up on the ultrasound. So the radiologist indicated to her that a mammogram and biopsy would need to be done as a lump could be felt. I figured I’d have to schedule that appointment and it could be a bit of a wait as mammograms are booked a year in advance so wasn’t sure how long I’d wait. I knew it wouldn’t be a year, but thought it could be a few months wait. The ultrasound tech had me wait a few minutes while she checked on appointments. She came back a few minutes later and said someone didn’t show up for their mammogram and the radiologist said I could have it done right away and he would also do the biopsy right afterwards. That was unexpected but I was determined to stay and get it done. I was so nervous as I was alone, both my kids were at school and I was needing to arrange for someone else to pick them up. I had the mammogram done and like you, I was younger to get one done. Here in BC at the time it was age 50 to have a mammogram.. so I wouldn’t have normally had one done. So they did a lot of views on my left breast and then I waited a bit for the biopsy. Had the biopsy done and like you, it wasn’t fun. The radiologist took about 5 pieces using the ultrasound guided core needle- ouch! But he said he did get enough to send away. About a week later I found out it was definitely breast cancer- the tumour was mixed.. partly a mucinous tumour (which is less aggressive) and partly invasive ductal carcinoma. I was sent to a surgeon and a lumpectomy with a sentinel node dissection was scheduled. On Feb 16/2016 I had the lumpectomy and sentinel node dissection. The Dr thought that it would be quite easy- lump was only 4mmx5mm (about the size of the little nub that sticks up from a AA battery). They would remove the lump and maybe I’d need radiation at most. Well, that didn’t happen. He did the surgery and took 3cm of tissue (lump plus surrounding area) and then 3 lymph nodes from underneath my armpit. Pathology revealed he didn’t get clear margins, and all 3 nodes had cancer in them. It was revealed that it was both hormone receptor positive and HER2+ which made it more aggressive. The grade of the tumour was a 2/3 (scale is 1-3.. 1 being least aggressive, 3 being most aggressive). The brakes were slammed on and the surgeon immediately sent me for a CT & bone scan to check for metastasis. Thankfully, all came back clear except they noted a lesion on my liver they hadn’t seen before in past CT’s for unrelated issues. So I then had to go for a liver MRI to rule out metastatic disease. Thankfully that MRI came back indicating the lesion was benign and not breast cancer related. I was then sent to the BC Cancer agency in my city and was able to see my medical oncologist in March 2016. Because I was +++, and cancer was in my nodes, it was definitely chemo. I had a breast MRI done to see exactly what we were dealing with. I started chemo in March 2016- 6 rounds, 21 days apart. I was on a regimen of FEC for the first 3 rounds (Fluoricicil, Epirubicin & Cyclophosphamide). Then they stopped those drugs and I had Docetaxel and Herceptin (for HER2+) for rounds 4-6. I continued to have Herceptin for a year after my 6th round as I had to have 17 rounds in total. During rounds 4-6 I had to have a series of 3 injections each chemo round of a drug called Nupigen. This helped increase my neutrophils during those rounds. It caused awful bone pain but I was able to get narcotic pain relief for the few days each round that I needed it for. After chemo was complete, another breast MRI was done to check for response. Thankfully I had a great response but still had to have more surgery. The oncologist wanted to take the left breast only, but I opted to take both breasts as I didn’t want to run the risk of a new cancer coming on the right side. I’m a worrier and knew I’d worry all the time about cancer. If I could lessen the chance of recurrence or new cancer coming, I was going to do whatever I could. My girls at the time were 5 & 9 and I was 41. I was scared out of my mind but just kept putting one foot in front of the other. I finished chemo at the end of June 2016 and on July 27/2016 I had a bilateral mastectomy done. I needed to do radiation after that so couldn’t do reconstruction until waiting a year after radiation was completed. I healed from surgery for 6 weeks and then started radiation in September 2016. I went through 28 rounds of radiation. My radiation oncologist said he could do 16 full spectrum rounds of radiation or spread it out to save my skin- doing 28 less intense rounds which would equal 16 full rounds. This would help my skin if I chose down the road to do reconstruction. After radiation was complete, I had still been doing Herceptin every 21 days. I didn’t complete that targeted treatment until end of April 2017. In May 2017, I had my chest port removed (forgot to mention I had one placed after my first 2 rounds of chemotherapy- ask for one! It truly saved my veins! ) In November 2016, I started Tamoxifen which is a pill used to help prevent recurrence in ER/PR + breast cancers.. in pre-menopausal women. I have to be on it for 10 yrs based off of me being young at diagnosis.. and that it was aggressive. Next month in November it will mark 7 years taking the drug so only 3 more to go. 👍🏻 In January 2024, it will be 8 years since being diagnosed and I’m well. I opted not to do reconstructive surgery and stayed flat. After my bilateral mastectomy, I had about 65 staples across my chest. I had home care nurses come to change my dressings and monitor my 4 drains I had in. It was during that time I had discussions about reconstruction with them and asked what/if they dealt with ladies who had them. They said more women had complications than not.. a lot of complications! It also is never a ‘one and done’ surgery.. it’s a ‘many and maybe you’ll be done’ . I was so tired of being poked & prodded, just wanted to get back to living. It’s definitely a personal choice and there are pros/cons to choosing it. God is great and I’m thankful to be here today seeing my girls grow up. My oldest is 17 and graduating high school in June.. my youngest is 13 and she is in grade 8. The entire breast cancer journey was difficult to say the least, but taking things one day, even one moment at a time is key. Try not to look too far ahead as it can be very overwhelming. In no time, this all will be in your rear view mirror. ❤

[@annefernandez9417]

I urge people to read your comment from beginning to end. Every cancer is different. Mine is HER2+. Whilst it’s good to read other ladies journeys, every treatment is planned and targeted to the individual patient. I’ve already had a right breast mastectomy, going through 6 rounds of chemo, 18 Herceptin injections and will probably also need radiotherapy. I still have to decide whether to have a reconstruction. I, like you, am thinking “do I need this?” I will be 69 in March 2024, my six year relationship ended this week (not due to my bc). I am not religious in any way but I absolutely believe in trying one’s best to stay positive.

[@janicenice3313]

@@annefernandez9417thank you for your comment.. first off, I hope you are fairing well in your treatments. It is an incredibly difficult journey that one only can empathize if you’ve gone through it yourself ❤️ I was 41 at diagnosis (now 49) and my treatment plan was aggressive as the cancer was aggressive. You are correct, every diagnosis is going to have a targeted treatment for it.. no two are the same. For me, I was young and my girls were young.. I was scared that I would not be around to see them grow up. As it was, had I followed the medical guidelines in my province, I wouldn’t have ever been screened until 50! If I had left things, I know I probably wouldn’t be here today. Having HER2+ status is serious and thankfully the targeted treatment is very effective. The choice on whether to do reconstructive surgery is a tough one. Some may quickly say they would definitely get it done, while others like myself, choose to stay flat. There are no right or wrong answers with it.. it’s such a personal decision to make and any choice will have pros & cons to it. Staying flat for me was the right choice.. but, I would be lying if I said it didn’t bother me looking at my body in the mirror from time to time. I always wear prosthetics and sometimes clothing choices are challenging when you don’t have breasts. To me, it was worth it to stay flat rather than go through the pain and most likely complications of surgeries for reconstruction. That was just me though. Many may say the surgery is no big deal and you get through it.. to which I say, absolutely! If it’s good for you, then you should do it. I was just over being poked and prodded, having procedures, surgeries, etc. I had spoken to my surgeon about complication rates with reconstructive surgery and ultimately came to the conclusion that it wasn’t for me. I still would choose today to stay flat if I was faced with making that choice. In saying that, staying flat did come with emotional, physical and mental challenges.. they still do 6 yrs post surgery. But, I’m alive and well and are watching my girls mature into beautiful young women ❤. I wish you well on this journey and just know, whatever choice you make, it will be the right one for you!

[@kernetteedwards8882]

❤

[@dionnepatrine584]

​@@annefernandez9417I too am HER2+ Found the lump underneath my right armpit in 2020. But I have been dealing with lumps in my breast since I was about 26 I am 49 now will turn 50 next month. But I have always been checking myself and going to the doc and doing mammograms which showed nothing because I have dense breasts. But the ultrasounds always showed the lumps and I would get them out and checked and everything was ok. Until I stumbled on that lump underneath my arm and I knew something had changed. I told myself it's cancer, (my big sister whom I followed died from bc cancer in 2017). So the moment I found the lump underneath my arm I prepared myself to hear the worst. I never for a moment entertained the thought that it wasn't cancer. I told myself it's cancer so that when the diagnosis finally came it would not floor me. I talked openly about it even before I did the biopsy. And after the biopsy....on both breasts might I add I prepared to hear the worse. I said if it's cancer then I'll just be like "ok so what's the next step? Where do we go from here?" Yeah I did my biopsy in November 2020 and got back my results in January 2021... My husband picked up the results from the lab. I was at work so I asked him to read the results to me but the medical terms/words were too hard for him to call. But from what he was reading it didn't sound like cancer. Anyways when I got home I read the results for myself and there it was invasive ductile carcinoma. I have cancer and it's in both breasts. No I didn't cry and I haven't cried until today. No, no hero but I had prepared myself for it. Of course it was a bit shocking to read that it was indeed cancer but so what? It there already, if I cry, worry or fret it won't make it go away. So I just worked with it. And take it step by step. Did double mastectomy. Flat chested. Here in my country Jamaica reconstruction surgery costs an arm and a leg. But I'm ok. I just face what I have to face. I didn't hide it from the ppl in my community. I talk about my cancer freely that way I squash the gossips and rumours which at times tends to border on lies and or exaggeration. Cancer is not something you bring on yourself in most cases. None of us can say I will never get cancer because it does not discriminate. Today you may be fine and then tomorrow you're diagnosed with it. In this day and age just prepare yourself for any eventuality and see how best you can work with it. Try your best to enjoy life while dealing with cancer. Keep a positive attitude. After the treatment is over......which is not nice, chemotherapy is not a breeze.....enjoy life. Sing, dance do the things that make you happy. Don't dwell on the cancer. Yes you know you have it but you don't need to keep thinking about it every minute of the day like it's your husband or best friend. Put it in a corner and let it stay by itself don't keep tugging it along with you wherever you go. Nooooo. Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured so enjoy your life.

[@geraldinegil469]

Thanks so much for sharing your story. I am +++ too. Great to hear you are okay ❤

[@kathleenducharme5749]

This video provides a wonderful service to women. Your explanations were clear and educational! I am sure many women will be helped by your efforts of filming this. But, oh! My heart aches for you. I am sorry you have to go through this. Know prayers are being said for you and positives thoughts are going out into the universe. I had a similar diagnostic experience last year. You are so right about it being an incredibly lonely and scary time. Fortunately, I did not have a cancer diagnosis but had the exact feeling you did about having my breasts removed. Wishing you an uneventful, uncomplicated chemo course, an easy surgical experience and perfect health once you are past this health crisis. ❤

[@danielleradojevich3177]

How are you doing tiday

[@lillianbarker4292]

My experience was a lot like yours. People complain about the US system but I have good insurance and I had great care. They did their best to expedite the process. Everyone treated me with great care. My oncologist said that my chemotherapy would probably not cause hair loss but it did. Keep an adventurous attitude and keep knitting. I slept through my chemo summer as you may. We are so lucky! I’m grateful too. Her 2 treatment is very successful and it’s relatively new. 😊❤

[@ruthcomfort4735]

I am a 16 year triple negative survivor. You will survive. Eat well, rest well, and Keep busy. I worked throughout my chemo and radiation. I was at 50

[@Yarn_Lab]

Survival stories like yours are so important and mean so much to me. Thank you for sharing, all the best!!

[@kenna8828]

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer 3 yrs ago, had surgery and radiation and has 2 more yrs of hormone therapy. The Cross Cancer Institute (Edmonton) was/is fantastic! Extremely supportive and did everything to make it at least a bit less lonely and isolating. At her first radiation treatment I was surprised to see a volunteer come by with a ‘fibre cart’ - literally a big cart filled with yarn, fibres and assorted knitting needles, crochet, tatting etc. I started a crochet blanket for her at her first appointment and was done by her last one. It will forever be her ‘breast cancer blanket’ and something we have both cried into and laughed over. I’ve been with her through all of it, every appointment and biopsy, and yes, those days in between do just seem to crawl in a weird time warp. I’m 42 now and just had an ‘abnormal’ mammogram and am being sent for further screening given the family history. Sharing your story is extremely valuable and your explanations exceptionally clear. Thank you!! ❤

[@Yarn_Lab]

Sorry I am just seeing this comment today, I have all my fingers crossed for you that your screening turned out to be ok, I can understand the worry especially given your mom's story. That crochet blanket must truly be a beloved item, what a special story. I haven't seen any fibre carts at any of my appointments in Calgary yet, I'll have to keep my eyes peeled. What a wonderful idea, knitting and crochet and craft in general can be such an important part of healing. Best.

[@kristyhuber7835]

We are failing women! I’m shocked at the age is 45 in Canada. It’s 40 here in the states. But that’s still not ok. It needs to be much younger because more and more women are being dx and at a younger age. I was dx’d with bc 2 years ago at age 47. It was found on my mammogram. I’m thankful the radiologist working that day felt it was best to do a biopsy to check the calcification they found. June 14, 2022 I received the call that I did, indeed, have breast cancer. I had invasive ductal carcinoma, estrogen positive. After more testing and more biopsies a second spot was found in the same breast. I had a double mastectomy 5 1/2 weeks later. Prayers for you as you begin this journey.

[@sfsusana]

I completely see myself in your story. The difference, my age, 51 years old, and I live in Portugal. The same diagnosis, Hers2 positive, at the same time of year. I had eight rounds of chemotherapy and last week I had surgery. It was a little tough but with a clear head and the love of the family we managed. Come to the next steps with all the courage and great gratitude for the exceptional support of my public health system. The affection and competence with which they treat me, I have no words to thank or describe. I hope everything goes well for you! A big hug! P.S. Sorry for my English, it's not my first language.

[@judithdonovan6832]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. I was diagnosed in 10/22 with Triple Positive HER2 invasive ductal carcinoma. Two websites I found incredibly helpful: Breast Cancer School for Patients & Yerba-Breast Cancer Center. I wish you the best with your Breast Cancer Journey. Judi ( age 79)

[@michellemonahan1797]

I was diagnosed February of 22 with triple positive as well. I’m told that we are the 10% of the breast cancer population. So thankful for targeted therapy! I thank my lucky stars every day I’m here and get more time to spend with my kids ❤ much love to you both

[@angieskidney]

I just was diagnosed with this same cancer a few months ago (2 days before Christmas 2023) and just finished my chemo BUT STILL GETTING Herceptin through my chest pot every 3rd week.. Next is my lumpectomy and then radiation. I am 50. My cancer is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma HER2+ PR+ ER+ Stage 2 Grade 3. Spread to 1 or 2 lymph nodes s the surgery they will remove 3. That will be later this month (May 2024). I hadn't went to get a mammogram for years even though with me having had a kidney transplant I could have gotten one earlier (I live in Ontario Canada). I felt a lump in Oct 2003 but at first though it was just a pulled muscle. It was my mom who encouraged me to get it checked.

[@elsyromero5580]

Hi! May I ask what type of chemo did you get? Going through the same.

[@kmpage333]

I'm new here. You have my thoughts and prayers. Great job! I used to take X-rays, so I know what you're talking about. Yes, don't look for Zebras, but when it rears up right in front of you, you have to see it. Thank goodness we have progressed so far in treatment. You will be there for your children. That's my silver lining for you. Stay strong and know that people are routing for you.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks for dropping in and commenting, I truly do appreciate it!

[@SavedbyGraceSETT]

I will pray for you to get through this! You will win this fight!

[@jenitabeard7409]

My heart goes out to you! All my best wishes and prayers.

[@cindycreateforlife]

Bless you for sharing, it is best to have the support you will get from your viewers, you will find many who have been down the same path and have gotten through it! Many will pray for you, send positive thoughts and cheer you on! You will help many others now and in the future after you recover by sharing your experience. 💕🙏🏼🇨🇦

[@1487marta]

Thank you for sharing. I would like to hear more about your cancer journey as you go through it. I’m a breast cancer survivor and your story is very compelling.

[@rebeccarose2346]

I am so sorry u are having to experience this, at this young youthful age. I am new here, your video came up in my feed. Your comments were so clear and provided women with so much information, I have not seen another channel break the medical terms down so well, that makes it understandable. I will be praying for u and ur family and keeping you in my thoughts. Thank you for sharing.

[@-lisamchuk]

You got this!! Lots of well wishes to you and your family!

[@vivianmichaelson9760]

I was ER/PR - HER 2 + also. Started Immunotherapy in October 2022; surgery(L total mastectomy with lymph nodes removed)in March 2023; after 6 weeks of healing I continued every three weeks with immunotherapy and just finished treatments November 2023. Cancer free 🎉. Hang in there. It is a climb to get to the other side. So glad to hear you have good support.

[@katrekaradeniz7943]

Is there a chance to get immunotherapy instead of chemo

[@maudeboggins9834]

Ma'am I take my hat off to you. you are so very very brave. I sincerely wish you many decades of health & happiness.

[@caoburton20]

So sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I’ve missed your videos and would love to see your KZbin channel return regularly. ❤

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks, I do hope to be able to still post a fair bit this summer. Sharing my yarny adventures on youtube is just something that brings me so much joy!

[@rhondabulwer5440]

Thank you for sharing your story, I was just diagnosed with this specific type of cancer as well. Im now researching and finding stories like yours. I hope your recovery journey is going great❤️

[@freereinartstudio1463]

I am so touched how you have thought of how other people may face added challenges when faced with cancer treatment. I am new to your channel so hope you are well into your successful treatment. From one artist to another, I hope you are reaping the healing benefits of creating also. Wishing you & your family the very best!

[@nellasenecal7007]

Hi Sara, We are always inspired by your courage as you tackle challenges head on. We are sending our love and support to you The Senecal's

[@lgassin]

Thank you for sharing your journey. My thoughts are with you, and my prayers will be for you. I'm so sorry you are going through this, and so hopeful you will come out the other end healthy!

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thank you so much for watching and commenting, it really does mean the world to know I have support from such a broad community!

[@banou6402]

I am sorry that you have cancer and I pray that you'll get rid of it with treatment just like my friend did with the same type of cancer. Your video is very informative and is very much appreciated. Thank you and wish you the best with your battle.

[@LovelyLauren83]

Appreciate your video! We're close in age, so I can appreciate all of your emotions - the diagnosis is not easy to digest. I was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer this past May, stage one and stage zero. I too, thought it would just be the beginning of routine mammograms (age 40), it turned out that my cyst was cancerous; and surprisingly invasive on the right breast. Thank you for being brave enough to speak on your journey; I'm not entirely there yet, but perhaps with a little more time, I will be.

[@annnarag835]

Praying 🙏 and stay positive: I myself going through same with her2+ found out Dec. 18 2023 and confirmed with biopsy result right before new year. I just finish my 3rd session of chemo… been so imotional but was glad to find your video. 🙏

[@amyfran87]

Thank you so much for this. My oldest sister had breast cancer at 29. I found a lump last night. I called my gynecological surgeon and they scheduled me for a mammogram/US tomorrow. It’s in the same building as her office which is a cancer center, so they are experts at least. I am terrified and his has made me feel so much more prepared. I hope you are doing g well ❤

[@freecloudfish]

Thank you for sharing your story, we are going through similar breast cancer journey, I wish you well and make the best of your life

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thank you so much, and all the best on your journey, breast cancer really does touch so many families.

[@megcarr3126]

Hi Sarah, thank you for sharing. It is important that we all know our own normal and check ourselves regularly. I can't imagine getting this news. At least you did get it checked as soon as you thought something wasn't right. When you said about not doing the mom thing, that's usually me. I am trying not to do that anymore. I want you to experience normality as much as possible. My husband's close friend had a terminal cancer diagnosis and he was sick and tired that the only thing people would talk to him about was the damn cancer. Make whatever you want. Try to keep the normal life going. You know that I have been watching your videos since before your twins were born. Btw, I love your green hair, it looks fab. Sending you love and hugs.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks Meg, for all your comments and for sticking with me all these years! and totally, us moms, always putting everyone else's needs before our own, its been so hard already having to step myself back in order to put my strengths towards this cancer fight thing, even when chemo has me exhausted you still hear your little cry and need to be there.

[@mariannemcguff1296]

Oh also, a book that may be very beneficial for you right now is “You can’t afford the luxury of a negative thought”. I just stumbled across this a few years ago and thought it was one of the most helpful books ever! Lots of great quotes in it too which I love!

[@mariannemcguff1296]

Please keep us posted!! This was a great video especially pointing out that fibrous breasts can hide cancer! I’m going to ask for an ultrasound! Take care Canadian friend! You’re in my thoughts and prayers

[@rosemarywilliams9667]

Thank you so much for all your brilliant information . Wishing you all the best of luck.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks so much, for commenting and your well wishes.

[@donnacurry166]

Thank you for sharing. I’m having a double mastectomy on Tuesday. I’m 59 and have HR+HER2- stage 1. I’m opting for the prophylactic mastectomy on the right breast and reconstructive surgery. I don’t need them. I’m older and kids are adults. I hope you’re doing well. Again thank you for sharing your journey. You’re very brave.

[@debbiepinks5531]

My daughter is going through this now, in the US. I need to share this with her. Every bit of info out there is so important. Thank you for sharing.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Please do share. I know for me, people who have shared their own stories has been so helpful. It can feel very lonely on the path of cancer treatment, knowing other people have walked it and are currently walking it helps a lot. Best of luck to your daughter and all my well wishes for a complete recovery.

[@AnnaArvanitis]

I’m so sorry for you darling. Try to stay positive, I wish you all the best ❤️🙏

[@woodwormweasel]

Thank you for sharing this. I recently got diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at 36. The diagnosis took a while and I was told not to worry about the tumor since cancer at my age is very improbable. You are taking this news much better then I did. I'll follow to see how it goes for you, it does provide a sense of comfort of sorts, that Im not alone in this predicament. Wishing you all the best from Poland.

[@SavedbyGraceSETT]

God bless you all! Stay hopeful!

[@barbarajohnson6026]

Thank you for telling your story. It is very helpful to me. Thank you again May God bless you and stay healthy.❤❤❤

[@trishylala]

I have been a subscriber for a long time and I am 46 but just got diagnosed with breast cancer this week I’m still waiting on my her2 status my biopsy sample wasn’t enough to complete the test which is very nerve-racking since this determines what type of treatment I receive Every thing feels very hurry up and wait I can relate with this entire video so i appreciate u sharing

[@DoesItReallyMatter25]

I’m 35 and just got diagnosed on Halloween. Thank you for sharing your story. ❤ I hope your treatment and recovery is going great! 🎉

[@rhondabulwer5440]

Wow, I’m 36 and was just diagnosed on Halloween as well for this specific type of breast cancer as well.

[@gmagam]

I'm 33 waiting on the biopsy and a bit nervous obviously but reading these comments and seeing so many young women going through this it's both heartbreaking and encouraging ❤I wish you both full recovery .. prayers..

[@missywong6832]

Thank you for sharing your story. I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer last August at 47 years old, HER2 negative and hormone positive.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks for the comment, I hope your treatment is going well and that you are hopefully over the worst of it!

[@louisabutler5105]

Thanks for sharing ! Sending Aloha & prayers from Washington State 🌺

[@goldyfishls]

Thanks I was diagnosed last week. I hope to learn to knit I currently cross stitch. I am 49 and have an 8 year old. It was definitely not something I expected even though I have a history with my great grandma. Its pretty lonely because I moved and have not made local friends yet. Thanks for sharing

[@Yarn_Lab]

sorry to have to welcome you to the cancer club, sending you all kinds of well wishes with your treatment. I do a little cross stitch myself, but defiantly give knitting or crochet a go. In general craft is a very helpful tool for dealing with the curveballs that come with life, and the crafting community can help with the loneliness (if you have a local yarn shop they almost certainly have a knit night). All the best, and if you ever need to chat don't hesitate to reach out!

[@litasheward6822]

Same happened to me. Got everything done and got the news alone. They said it was DCIS but after they said it was HER2 + Mastectomy March 6th Stage 1 Type 3. Central Alberta. Hope everything goes well for you. I got a port put in and 3 lymphe nodes out.Did 12 rounds of Chemo and am having Herceptin till May. If it comes back, I'll have 5-6 years. You are lucky you have people who support you.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks for sharing your story. Breast cancer is unfortunately way too common. I hope your treatment went as smoothly as possible and the rest of your rounds of Herceptin. Here's to a complete recovery and no recurrence.

[@stella-xx1uq]

Hello girls. Same here HER2+ . I was diagnosed one year ago, I did chemo, radiation, Herceprin, perjeta with port. Then I removed the port and I am doing Fesgo until March. Why did you say that if it comes back you will have 5-6 years? Is this what the doctor said to you? Sorry for asking, but my doctor haven't mentioned this, so I would like to know. Thank you in advance for your answer

[@yjohnson1049]

Good morning, your story rings so comforting to me.. I am going thru the same process.. had some pain in my Left breast, I felt one lump, thru US/Mammo two lumps were found… Radiologist came in as well and said I needed a Biopsy 🥹 That was done today.. now I’m waiting on results 🙏🏾 May God Bless You 🙏🏾🙏🏾 I will continue to watch your journey and pray for the Best outcome 🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️

[@Yarn_Lab]

I know I said it in reply to another comment but truly best of luck for speedy results and good results. Thank you for sending your prayers.

[@gmagam]

In waiting on the biopsy results now. How were your results?

[@iamwinningrightnow]

I wish these doctors would stop telling patients, "due to your age, it's unlikely that it's cancer." Cancer can strike at any age, and if you have breast, welllll...!Cancer is no longer an old person disease.

[@kristyhuber7835]

So very true! I was dx’d at 47 and the type of breast cancer I had my doc said was not common for someone my age. I know many women way younger than me that have had bc.

[@cshknitseveryday1021]

You are terribly brave. I am with you all the way. Knit when can, cry when you feel like it, and create videos when you have the strength. Much love to you and your family. Positive attitude which is what you have will take you to the other side of this diagnosis. Looking forward to crying, smiling and laughing with you soon. Cherrl from Chicago, Illinois USA

[@kristyhuber7835]

Invasive doesn’t mean it’s any more worrisome. When I heard the word invasive it terrified me! The radiologist was quick to inform me to not let that word scare me that it simply meant it was outside the duct. I had invasive ductal, estrogen positive, which is a slow growing cancer.

[@gemmaf_]

Damn everything I write sounds so ridiculous. My aunt had breast cancer last year. I had an inflamed cyst last year. It's a lot to deal with and go through in so many ways. Thank you for sharing. Sending big internet hugs 💕

[@geraldinegil469]

I hope you are okay. I am HER2+ too and had surgery a few days after your diagnosis. xx

[@joanwhite2365]

You sweet heart. I had triple negative grade 3 8 years ago. After treatments chemo ect I use Essiac tea. Lots of love to you stay strong xx

[@frankie8478]

Viewed from Japan and I am Japanese thank you for sharing your story

[@lesamitchell3937]

In 2014 I was dx with +++ breast cancer stage 1. Had lumpectomy but needed more margin so another lumpectomy. Had a port placed (important to get). Was scheduled for 6 rounds of chemo but my body gave up after 4 rounds. Next had 36 rounds of radiation and was supposed to have herceptin alone for 1 full year. I got heart failure after 2 more rounds of just herceptin. So then hormone therapy for 5 years but quit after 4.5 years. Almost 10 years later I am cancer free at the age of 66. Chemo drugs caused permanent thinning of my hair, cognitive difficulties and peripheral neuropathy. I take a nightly drug and a morning drug for neuropathy pain and 3 pills daily for my heart. MD Anderson is the best cancer center in the world. I know I had the best of care but.....

[@KellyBrown-qh1oy]

I love all the yarn

[@ashleyt1713]

Thank you so much for your video. i hope you are good at this time October 2023.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks, doing very well, have my mastectomy surgery coming up this week, so hopeful it goes really well!

[@ginabrown2016]

PRAYERS FOR YOU ,

[@lillianbarker4292]

Glad you got the mammogram at a young age.

[@jennyrose7220]

Hi! Thanks for your videos on breast cancer! I love the way you explain everything so well! I was recently diagnosed with HER2+ breast cancer and live on Vancouver Island. I am doing Perjeta and Herceptin for treatment. For my journey of recovery I would love to take up knitting. What would your recommendations be how to on get started?

[@Glory-to-God.]

peace be with you always🙏

[@oligreen1192]

Thank you so much. Beautiful woman. God Bless

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thank you! You too!

[@bojigirl5672]

You can do this! I had breast cancer twice and thyroid cancer. Still kicking. The chemo will make you super fatigued. Plan for the support you will need for that. You will get to the other side of this.

[@timelessmemories5150]

be strong thinking of you

[@user-cf8md3xc1z]

Thank you for sharing. 🙏🏻

[@truthfully11]

I’m currently waiting biopsy results!! She said 50/50 .. I’m a single mom with no network or barely any family..I’m nervous…sending you much love ❤️

[@Yarn_Lab]

I'm crossing all my fingers and sending luck your way for a good result.

[@yjohnson1049]

Praying for you🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@yjohnson1049]

I’m waiting on Biopsy results as well.. just had my procedure today 🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️

[@Yarn_Lab]

@@yjohnson1049 best of luck with your biopsy. I'm on my way into my mastectomy surgery today.

[@jackiejoy1852]

Sending prayers nonstop new subscriber ❤️❤️🙏🏼🙏🏼✝️✝️

[@Annalauracorreo]

Thank you for sharing and hope you are going well through treatment. You said they took samples from different angles during the biopsy. Did they enter the needle several times into the breast from different points or they could the take the sample from all angles while the needle stayed in? During my biopsy they took a sample only from one angle and I wished they took from several. Because I have dcis, which doesn’t need to become invasive. But they recommend mastectomy, because they don’t know if the other angle is invasive.

[@FiberArts22]

10 year survivor. 2b the new drugs r awesome even better than when I did it ! Herceptin is a life saver. There is a movie about it !

[@anitasloane9628]

I had the exact type of csncer as you. I was 75 and followed the regime of treatment as you described. I did have double mastectomy after chemo (6 treatments) before the rest of the chemo. I could have had reconstruction in America but at my age, I decided not to. I felt a lump in my breast at time of yearly mammogram. I needed alot of support and luckly, my husband was available and capable to be with me every day and every Dr appointment.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thank you so much for sharing your cancer story with me, I am glad to hear you were well supported throughout your treatment. It means the world to me to hear stories from other survivors. Best wishes.

[@aprilm2664]

My mom is 93 and was just diagnosed with breast cancer and will be having the tumor removed in 2 days

[@Yarn_Lab]

I hope everything went well for your mom during surgery, wishing a speedy recovery. Best!

[@angiebailey309]

I too was recently diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma HER 2 negative. ER positive strong PGR positive strong k1-66 5% I am the same way no cancer in my family on either side? I understand what your going through

[@pankajdodhia7210]

Hi Yarn, my closed one is diagnosed with HER2 positive with stage 3. What is the right time to start targeted therapy. Currently patient is undergoing 4 rounds of chemotherapy 😊

[@GatsvyMedia]

Early stage detection saves lives!

[@lalitahalawar2198]

God bless you dear... My FNAC report is binyan but pain appears in periods ..pain in axillary region..

[@KellyBrown-qh1oy]

Hold on to your beauty 🌺🌹🌷

[@netty062]

Here's some normalcy for you....Is that a Campside Cardi? Looking forward to hearing more from you on KZbin. Take good care, sending positive thoughts for you and your family.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Absolutely it is a campside cardi! I knit it this spring (after having it in my ravelry line up for ages).

[@KellyBrown-qh1oy]

How bad to lose what you love ❤

[@donnajohnson8035]

New subscriber here. I’m thinking of you. I’m loving your cardigan and scarf. Did you make them? I’m currently being ‘tested’ for ovarian cancer. It’s very scary.

[@Yarn_Lab]

Thanks! and Yes, the sweater and scarf are both hand knit. Sending you all my best of luck wishes for your test results to come back negative for cancer. One thing about the way I found out, having left my ultrasound/mammogram appointment so certain it was cancer, meant I didn't have to spend too much time in the space where you are waiting to find out.

[@christophersandmann]

I'm just a stranger wanting to wish you well. 🤞

[@ann-eliseangell6142]

🙏

[@khawajafarooqqasim7944]

In Shah Allah you will be cured

[@Kona_Blue]

I can’t believe even your husband said “Oh it’s just lumpy, no need to worry”. That is ridiculous. Girls always get your lumps examined, always!!!!!

[@pwear2528]

I doubt if that made her feel better.

[@RowesRising]

My friends are telling me I’m overreacting about lumps in my armpit/breast. They are saying I shouldn’t get a mammogram because of the radiation. Now I’m conflicted! And scared!

[@gailcharlton3628]

​@@RowesRisingplease get checked

[@Shaheenieltszie]

Even I have brest fibroadenoma multiple in both brest from the age of 17 now I m 38 year did biopsy also at the age of 22 got operated once after delivery fibroadenoma doctor told me leave it it's not get converted but do test every year I m scared

[@wandah9468]

I got diagnosed with the same cancer about the same time as you. No symptoms, they found it on a routine mammogram. So, i weathered well, the Taxol, herpacin infusion. Round 8 finally slowed me down a little. Quite an accomplishment, since im high energy. Lost hair like everybody else. But only 4 more rounds and im done with the Taxol, still continue with the hepacin for the rest of the year. If you decide to go under a scarf, as i did, check out the tutorials from "haute hijab" which sells high quality scarves, etc. Also, check out "wrapunzel" tutorials, and bright scarves!

[@KellyBrown-qh1oy]

Yeah it's sad 😭😢

[@patsyhay9592]

Mamagrams should be done at a way younger age I am sick of young people getting cancer when it could be avoided with these scans. Just because it’s rare doesn’t mean it’s not possible and we are seeing more and more young people getting cancer it’s disgraceful 😢

[@Yarn_Lab]

I totally agree with you!! I think it's wild that it's only recently been dropped from 50 to 45, 40 if you push for it. I'd love to see what the risk/benefit analysis data looks like for 30-35 year olds, because I have been hearing far too many stories about women my age or younger being diagnosed these days. Thanks for the watch and the comment!

[@maudeboggins9834]

To be honest, I believe that because more & more young people are being diagnosed with various cancers that things are actually changing.

[@maudeboggins9834]

@@Yarn_Lab In Britain in the 70's women in their 30's were already being checked out. My mother was 36 in 1978. She had a check.

[@Sarahpreecenelsonnz]

@Patsyhay9592 You say that young people are getting cancer when it could be avoided with scans (mammagrams). . . I'm interested as to why you conclude that? Scans supposedly detect cancer; they don't prevent it. In many if not most cases, anomalies are confirmed by scan, as in Sarah's case, after an intitial reason for concern that pre-dates scan. Sarah is the 3rd knitting podcaster I have seen this week, who is suddenly dealing with a life altering/threatening medical crisis, for which there were no previous indicators. At some time in the future we will be allowed to consider the correlation between recent mrna vaccination and otherwise unexplained and anomalous demise in wellbeing. But for now, we'll just all avoid the evidence and jump on anyone who dares to raise it.

[@moni3634]

For Young women until 50 Ultrasound once a year is the best way to detect cancer❤❤❤

[@KellyBrown-qh1oy]

Her pain was immensive

[@knightsbridgelondon2805]

One can pay for a Mammogram privately in walk in clinics … it’s only about £200…

[@tania32ify]

I am 50 after my first memogram in last November they found couple syct in my right breat they said nothing to do at this point we will redone memo after 6 months if any changes but after 6 months in August they did again and they said not any change so they considered its not cancerous so ghey will do next year again my memogram. Anyone can suggest me should I worry or I have to go with doctor 's advice?

[@Shaheenieltszie]

I have same condition brest fibroadenoma not to worry I m 38 years now I have this issue from the age of 17

[@khawajafarooqqasim7944]

May Allah bless you with lot health

[@ronaldfullman5294]

Give it all to Jesus.

[@cheskydivision]

As soon as doctors started feeling lumps you should have started getting mammograms. At least once to have a baseline to compare too.

[@ASH-T786]

I have been diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer in June 7th I am having my first chemo tomorrow 😞

[@Yarn_Lab]

I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but happy to hear that you are getting to start treatment so quickly, it was over 2 months from my diagnosis to starting chemo. I hope everything goes well (no bad reactions) for your first treatment! I go for round 4 tomorrow

[@ASH-T786]

Thank you so much for your reply Day 12 after my first chemo I am feeling little better ended up getting mouth blisters and infections and numbness on feet and hands. 🙏prayering next ones dont give me all these side effects Wishing and praying for you 🙏

[@KellyBrown-qh1oy]

Bad to be sick 🤢 with cancer ♋🦀