A month ago I received a telephone call from a mom breastfeeding her 9 month old
baby who had discovered breast cancer - invasive carcinoma - and was facing a
mastectomy.  We discussed the weaning process, understanding that after the
surgery chemotherapy would follow which would require it.

Since then, she has been found to have stage IV Cancer and is going to Sloan
Kettering next week for studies to see if she is a candidate for medullary
transplant.  She knows someone in Newark, but no one un NYC.  I was wondering if
among our LactNetters there would be someone with contacts/information/advice
for people who go to Sloan Kettering for studies, etc.  She is a professional
and speaks English well, so there is no language problem.  Her two children will
be staying in Puerto Rico with her family, but I think her husband will be with
her.

I was going to begin this next sentence with "She is feeling..." but realize
that I don't know what she is feeling - At one point, she is frustrated as she
wishes there had been more follow-up related to a lump she felt during her last
pregnancy - then she says, but then I would have had immediate surgery and would
not have been able to bf even for 9 months (she bf her first child over a year).
Angry that there was delay between diagnosis and surgery.  Terrified at what her
prospects are.  Intense sadness that she may not see her children grow up...

She wants to make sure people know that breastfeeding DOES NOT prevent breast
cancer and that women MUST keep a close eye on their bodies and INSIST on
follow-up when questionable lumps appear.

Thanks for your help and suggestions.
Jeanette Panchula, BSW, RN, IBCLC, LLLL
Puerto Rico
[log in to unmask]