So I'm 23. I have "an extremely aggressive" (says my dr) case of RA. Now I have 3 lumps in my right breast. I went for a biopsy and the dr said with my age and the type of lump, they will only get larger and more painful... he recommends I have them removed. So now I have to have a lumpectomy. And my insurance has NOT been covering enough of the expenses... since I'm so young I don't exactly have a huge savings to dip into.
The icing on the cake? My dog died. I hate 2006. Or at least the first few months of it. Things have GOT to get better... right?!
Man, that really sucks. There is no better way to put it. I am sorry you are dealing with so much right now. I wish you well. Let us know how things go. Vent away. I know this can't be easy for you.So sorry to hear that 2006 has been so rough on you, Trish. I hope things get better soon.
Kelly
Trish, I highly recommend a second opinion on your breast lumps. Anytime a physician recommends surgery it is a good idea to get another opinion, but especially when you are dealing with your breasts.
First BE CERTAIN that there is no chance of malignancy. Then you can make an informed decision about when and if you choose to have the surgery. You may at least be able to plan for the surgery and go into it at a time that is financially better for you. Everyone's situation is different, and your health is nothing to take a chance with.
When I was 23 my gyno found a lump and sent me for a mammogram and surgical consult. Fortunately my situation was such that here I am 24 years later, and my lump is still there, monitored with my regular mammograms, causing no problems. It grew larger during each pregnancy, but then went back down to it's pre-pregnancy size. One thing they did tell me is that caffeine makes them larger and more painful, so if you are consuming a lot of coffee, or taking diet supplements with caffeine or other stimulants, I would stop.
I wish you the best!
Trish, I hope that things get much better for you and please do get a 2nd opinion on the breast lumps. Don't rush in to surgery unless it's for a biopsy to see what's going on.I had three lumpectomies and had a bilateral Mastectomy 6 years ago due to cancer. I am 45.
PLEASE, get a second opinion and be sure to speak VERY frankly with your doctor and the surgeon.
As for the coverage? They have to cover it if it is so. They don't have a choice due to age. Don't let the insurance company walk all over you. You have to remain strong and fight with them. I know personally that it's tough but, trust me I've been there and done it all.
Please be sure to keep us all posted.
Remember "Inch by inch it's a cinch". :o) *hug*
So sorry to hear about your breast problems. I know you must be worried about the whole thing. I've been battling basel cell skin cancer and have fibrocystic breasts which on occassion have given me frightening mamograms that turned out to be ok. I definitely agree that you should get a second opinion. Also, the good news is that you are young and they are doing so much more to control RA. Please don't get discouraged.
By the way, the 30 stitches on my face from a skin graft that I thought would make me hideous are hardly noticable.
Trish-I'm so sorry to hear about all you are goingTrish, hi, I am new here so forgive me if I make mistakes...I was diagnosed with RA back in 1984...I was shocked and angry when I was told! Now 22 years later, I am doing well considering the RA has eaten away at my joints over the years! Try not to let depression hold you down, especially on good days...It is very important to have a positive outlook in life...Yes, you have RA, but it doesn't mean you are imprisoned for life! Take the good days and enjoy as if you didn't, but of course take care so you won't have nasty flareups later in the week from over doing...Good luck in 2006...I am truly sorry for the loss of your dear pet...Good luck!
Claire
So sorry to hear of all the trouble your having. This is the best place I know of to vent so by all means let it all out. This disease is so frustrating that having a site like this to go to is a relief. I hope that the rest of 2006 will get better for you.