This is the first time I've actually known someone with breast cancer. So this month is near and dear to my heart.
As with all cancers there are stages of it. Breast cancer has stages of 0-4. The stages are determined by; The size of the tumor, the number of lymph nodes affected, the nearest lymph nodes that are found under the arm, and signs indicating if the breast cancer has gone to other organs.
Stage 0-1
These lowest numbered stages represent the earliest detection of breast cancer development. At Stage 0 and 1, the cancer cells are confined to a very limited area.
Stage 2 (II) and Stage 2A (IIA)
Stage II breast cancer is still in the earlier stages, but there is evidence that the cancer has begun to grow or spread. It is still contained to the breast area and is generally very effectively treated.
Stage 3 (III) A, B, and C
Stage III breast cancer is considered advanced cancer with evidence of cancer invading surrounding tissues near the breast.
Stage 4 (IV)
Stage IV breast cancer indicates that cancer has spread beyond the breast to other areas of the body.My grandma has stage one. There's 2 different types of stage 1: Stage 1A and Stage 1B.
Stage 1A means the tumor is about the size of a peanut and hasn't spread to the lymph nodes.
Stage 1B means the lymph nodes have cancer evidence with tiny cluster of cells the size of the end of a needle.
Stage 1 cancers are small and contained to the original area where the abnormality first appeared. This stage is highly treatable and you can see a full recovery after treatment. BUT it does require immediate attention, typically surgery and radiation.
Courtesy of National Breast Cancer Foundation
http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/
Grandma started her first round of chemo today. SO far she's doing good, she's just tired. I was going to get a few things together for a care package. I need ideas of what a cancer patient may need or want. Please continue to pray for her and for the rest of the family.
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