Hi Esme, I've been there and hope to never go there again. I won't sugar coat it, it's damn hard, and it's a nightmare but there is light at the end of the tunnel.

I was diagnosed at 32 with breast cancer, grade 3, 20mm. Luckily it hadn't spread. I had the lump removed, chemo and radiotherapy.

I won't go into too much detail here (please feel free to message me if you would like to talk) but it's now 5 years later, I'm alive and well, I have had 2 beautiful children and my life is great.

My breast cancer experience doesn't define me and I'm not a victim. I am however aware that breast cancer is something I will live with for the rest of my life, I am vigilant and very aware of my body. I choose a healthy life and try and ensure that I surround myself with positive experiences and people.

I'm not going to say stay strong because realistically now is a time of shock and fear and if you need to dissolve in tears and rage then do it, if you need to scream at the world then do it. Breast cancer isn't fair and it isn't pretty but for some it's reality.

I had all my treatment in Sydney (I lived there at the time) my surgeon was Dr Chris Bambach and my Oncologist was Dr David Bell. Both are top of their field and lovely. I don't know where in country NSW you are but they are just a suggestion.

I'm so sorry you've had this shock, but it sounds like there is still hope that it's not cancer so I know all of us here at BB will be praying for you.

Take care xx