Angie, I'm so glad your biopsy was benign. I had a similar experience (only mine was a calcification on a digital mammogram), and you're right ~ the time between finding the spot or lump in question and getting the official diagnosis really turns you around. I'm grateful for what I learned in the process, but man it's overwhelming.
Though my diagnosis was benign, some argue it's a precursor, while others say it's not. I find that a bit frustrating, but I know medicine has its limits, and most docs are doing the best they can. At the moment, I'm on the 6 month mammogram schedule, which is pretty much all I can do. I've considered arguing for an MRI, but there are pitfalls with that as well.
Dorothy, I'm sorry to hear of your friends' diagnoses. I think I read recently that the breast cancer rate among women is now 1 in 8.
Baylian, I'm sorry about your mom. I'm glad to hear you're keeping up with your mammograms. The high school fundraiser is wonderful.
Gayle, it'll be fine.

I think the mammograms are little less uncomfortable than they used to be. I've had 3 of them since
*edited* February, and they aren't nearly as bad as the one I had 6 years ago. You should treat yourself afterwards, give yourself something to look forward to.
Janie, I send you ~ benign vibes ~.
<3 Long, painful pap smear?! *faints*
Michele, glad to hear you're on top of things.
Tami, being poked, proded, and crushed naked isn't your idea of fun?!
For any sewers, knitters or crocheters, here's a BC related charity that is
very grateful for anything you can send their way:
http://www.headhuggers.org/