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Preparation for mastectomy + DIEP + potentially port removal
For the short read: What exercises for PRE-surgery do you recommend? I have about 2 months time, am 45 and generally fit except for limited mobility in one arm due to a pesky port that won't ever heal properly (see deep read below if interested). For the deep read: So I hear this is a 10 hr surgery with my arms up over my shoulders and people leaning over them. Obviously lots of incisions and wound care to follow as well as time appropriate physio and exercises. I'm still 2 months out from surgery and would like to be as prepared as possible since I've previously suffered shoulder bursitis and subsequent frozen shoulder on both sides (at different times fortunately!) that lasted many many months (less the 2nd time as I could feel it coming on). Any pre-surgery exercises to recommend? I also have had problems with scar healing. My port insertion was the first time I've ever been cut and stitched up. I had it first become dehiscent, then redone 6 weeks later, then lots of spitting sutures. After another 8 weeks the skin was irritated from taping so stopped that. But in a week, the scar continues to widen without taping and is now 2cm wide! Have now started back on with stratamed and taping but using a gauze over the wound because it now got a bit of exudate. Yes, nurses and doctors monitor it, I have suitable antibiotics on hand, but since they saw how bad it got last week I've been told to be extra vigilant and go straight to ED with a low tolerance of anymore funny business or temperature of course. So stretching back on the port side is currently difficult. Many many thanks for all you lot helping each other out ❣️68ViewsSign in to react to this post3CommentsPrepations for mastectomy + lymph clearance + DIEP + potentially removing port surgery
For the short read: What exercises for PRE-surgery and items to have onhand for POST-surgery do you recommend? I have about 2 months time, am 45 and generally fit except for limited mobility in one arm due to a pesky port that won't ever heal properly (see deep read below if interested). For the deep read: So I hear this is a 10 hr surgery with my arms up over my shoulders and people leaning over them. Obviously lots of incisions and wound care to follow as well as time appropriate physio and exercises. I'm still 2 months out from surgery and would like to be as prepared as possible since I've previously suffered shoulder bursitis and subsequent frozen shoulder on both sides (at different times fortunately!) that lasted many many months (less the 2nd time as I could feel it coming on and do exercises). Any pre-surgery exercises to recommend? I also have had problems with scar healing. My port insertion was the first time I've ever been cut and stitched up. I had it first become dehiscent, then redone 6 weeks later, then lots of spitting sutures. After another 8 weeks the skin was irritated from taping so stopped that. But in this last week, the scar has widen without taping and is now 2cm wide! Have now started back on with stratamed and taping but using a gauze over the wound because it now got a bit of exudate. Yes, nurses and doctors monitor it, I have suitable antibiotics on hand, but since they saw how bad it got last week I've been told to be extra vigilant and go straight to ED with a low tolerance of anymore funny business or temperature of course. So stretching back on the port side is currently difficult. I understand I'll be a fairly sedentary for the first while. For items after surgery I found such things - any comments? Any brands or items you tried that were no good? Mastectomy ice pack strap thingy https://ebay.io/m/lgO8Mh Wedge pillows https://ebay.io/m/l4HXiR Different ones https://ebay.io/m/YhKxGI https://onelink.shein.com/58/65zvq6nbsrcr Will I need a girdle? Where to get, what to look for? Skins brand compression items were mentioned elsewhere in forums. Any relevant for my case? A bit of chest compression with this chest binder? I'll be a 10A-B with DIEP flap https://onelink.shein.com/58/65zwsvn5cwfj Or this just looks like a tight tank top https://ebay.io/m/DeByYA Best wound healing products? I've got stratamed (didn't use from beginning or consistently. Just started again now). Tips for use other than what on the package? Any tips for avoiding spitting sutures? Yuck and annoying! 😭 Many many thanks for all you lot helping each other out ❣️10ViewsSign in to react to this post0Comments🏃♀️🏃♂️ Join the Can Walk Can Run Program – Melbourne & Sydney
Members of our network are invited to take part in a University of Melbourne research study exploring the Can Walk Can Run program - a codesigned, community‑based walking and running initiative for people affected by cancer. This program offers inclusive, fun, non‑judgmental group walking and running sessions. People living with and beyond cancer - along with their friends and family - are welcome to join as many sessions as they like - including those that have already started! 📍Heffron Park, Maroubra (Sydney) – from 4 March 📍Studley Park, Kew (Melbourne) – from 16 March 📍Princes Park, Carlton (Melbourne) – from 6 April To learn more or register, please visit: www.canwalkcanrunprogram.com Who can join? You’re eligible if you: ✔ are over 18 ✔ have a lived experience of cancer ✔ can walk independently (Current trials are available only in Sydney and Melbourne.) If you’re unsure whether the program is suitable for you, the lead researcher, Chris Swain, is happy to discuss: [email protected] Sessions include: • Welcome and introduction • Group warm‑up with simple strength exercises • Walking and/or running activities tailored to your ability A six‑week walking, jogging, or running plan is also available for those unable to attend in person. For questions about participation, you can also contact BCNA’s Consumer Engagement team at [email protected].54ViewsSign in to react to this post0CommentsExercise after mastectomy
Hi all, I am almost 7 months after SMX. I have been diligent with rehab exercises, and I approached exercise very gently. After 6 months I was able to return to the rock-climbing level I was once (21 grade at the gym). and I can also run for 5 km (although not at a previous pace), and lift weights. with perseverance and discipline, we can get back to our routines. I do have another surgery coming up (tissue expander expand), as I decided not to have an implant. So I will likely start from 0 again, and again baby steps...but I least I know that the rehab journey works. Good vibes to everyone!159ViewsSign in to react to this post2CommentsENCORE - Hunter Region
Hi ladies, Many of you may be familiar with the YWCA ENCORE program. Just a quick one to let you know we're still going strong in the Hunter region, NSW! ENCORE is a FREE eight week program designed specifically for women who have experienced breast cancer at any time in their life. Incorporating exercises, relaxation techniques and information. It is safe, fun and therapeutic. The exercise program is specifically designed to target areas that have been affected by breast cancer surgery and treatment. These exercises improve strength, mobility and flexibility whilst the warm water in the pool sessions relieve affected muscles. The program also offers information through guest speakers, links into local services, and opportunity to connect with local women who share a similar experience in a safe, fun and supportive environment. Many great friendships have been formed at our Encore programs! We're now taking enrolments for two upcoming programs, and we'd love for you to join us. VALENTINE: Tuesdays | 3 February–24 March 2026 | 11:00am–1:15pm MAITLAND: Thursdays | 5 February–26 March 2026 | 1:45pm–4:00pm Please reach out if you have any questions: [email protected] / 02 4929 2954 . More info on the program and enrolments here: www.ywcahunterregion.org.au/encore Thanks Nat, Caz, Cindy, Jodie & Yela YWCA Hunter Region Inc. 02 4929 2954 [email protected] www.ywcahunterregion.org.au/encore43ViewsSign in to react to this post0Comments🏃TREK4BCNA🏃 - Who here has a case of the Trekking bug?!
Take on the adventure of a lifetime! You’re invited to join BCNA community ambassador Kristal in the TREK4BCNA to Mount Kilimanjaro this February. Whether it’s a chance to challenge yourself physically and mentally, a way to show support for others, or to do a life changing trek in memory of someone you love, a group of like-minded people will walk by your side. Click here to check out more: https://inspiredadventures.com.au/event/bcna-kilimanjaro-2026/84ViewsSign in to react to this post0CommentsRock climbing, strength training and running after lumpectomy
Hi everyone. I'm an active 41 yo (My favourite activities are climbing, sailing and running). I had a lumpectomy 3 weeks ago. The size of the tissue removed was 6x4 cm. I'm feeling great with the recovery, and I will most likely start radiotherapy soon. I was wondering how was your experience with recovery and getting back to exercise. I'm like rock climbing, and I am thinking to take another 3 weeks off training, but I also have been reading that I could exercise the lower part of my body. I have been walking almost daily. How has everyones experience has been with lumpectomy and returning to fitness?239ViewsSign in to react to this post3CommentsExercise and Cancer
unsure if this has been posted before but here is a link for a doco on catalyst on the ABC. Before I started teaching, I was an exercise physiologist. This study is very very interesting and promising. I know it is hard for people to exercise throughout chemo but here is a doco on the benefits. As I know about the benefits of exercise and cancer from previous study I have continued to exercise: walking 3 times a week, yoga once or twice as well as started back doing gym work. I feel it has helped with my side effects. And received an amazing compliment from a doctor the other day that has never met me before (I don't know whether to say it or not as well I don't want to jinx myself haha). here it is: Watching Catalyst Series 17 Ep 14 Exercise And Cancer in iview http://iview.abc.net.au/programs/catalyst/SC1502H014S00883ViewsSign in to react to this post16CommentsOn Our Walks
A while back there was a lovely thread of sunrises that the early risers among us posted. I loved it, so I thought I'd broaden it to a thread for all the lovely sights we see as we do our slow staggers through chemo, or those walks we take after active treatment has finished and we're trying to get our strength and fitness back. In Melbourne today the weather was sunny, still and mild; perfect for a walk. I have followed my GP to a small town in the Yarra Valley (a good GP is worth the 30 minute drive I reckon), and right outside her surgery is the start of a beautifully laid out walking track. It's 7kms long and I've been keen to explore it. So today I walked halfway along it and back. At over 7kms it was the longest walk I've done since the day before chemo!26KViewsSign in to react to this post663CommentsSimple exercises you can do at home to improve your fitness
The Recovery Room (on Facebook) has a HEAP of informative short videos on MANY cancer related subjects ..... today, it was on simple exercises you can do at home, to improve your Fitness. https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=624715349412100 Check out their other videos as well - these ones related to those with cancer https://www.facebook.com/watch/1714774835317800/320617835333334144ViewsSign in to react to this post0CommentsPilates
Hi Ladies, I have just been to see my Physio and she mentioned a program specifically catering to people going through or recovering from Cancer treatments. The program is run by qualified Physiotherapists and includes many options for aiding in your physical recovery. You can find participating clinics in your area by going to the PINC & STEEL website.1KViewsSign in to react to this post17CommentsExercise
Good evening ladies...those on Letrozole or other meds that cause muscle and joint pain. What exercise have you found helps. Thank you xx1.4KViewsSign in to react to this post23CommentsLiz O'Riordan - breast surgeon with BC Recommended to Read
I found this blog by an English breast surgeon who got BC herself to be incredibly useful & informative when I was first diagnosed. And then most especially the chemo guide when I found out I had to have it myself. She hasn't posted for a long time but a notification just popped into my inbox, she's writing again. So if you're into blogs, check it out. http://liz.oriordan.co.uk/MovingOn_files/this-is-who-I-am.html5KViewsSign in to react to this post45CommentsHappy Body, Calm Mind Workshop - Counterpart
This could be worth looking into ..... https://counterpart.org.au/events/happy-body-calm-mind/77ViewsSign in to react to this post0Commentsgetting fit again
It is a lovely cold morning with overcast skies and I have just completed morning nine of my new get fit regime. After finding gyms that suited me far too expensive I searched alternatives. I found a free app that is amazing and you can do anything from 'only' stretches to a rigorous workout. I have been doing the stretches and some of the basic dance routines and feel fantastic. My breathing is much more relaxed and each day I feel more flexible. The app does try to get you to update to their Pro programme which costs but after a few days the ads for this settle down to one per session and I just click the x button. You can choose whichever workout you feel like for the day and the times range from ten minutes to ??? Check it out and let me know what you think. Free works well for this chicken. FITON is the app name.1.4KViewsSign in to react to this post28CommentsExercise and Taxol
Hey Ladies. I've finished the dreaded AC and starting taxol today. I've been walking a lot during the whole process with some light workouts but want to get back to my usual fitness stuff. Maybe not so heavy but definitely hiking. How has everyone else coped with working out or whatever was manageable?352ViewsSign in to react to this post5CommentsFree Yoga Class
Eve Yoga Studio 171 Sydney Road Brunswick have a free yoga class every Monday at 11.15 am for women who have a history of Breast Cancer.238ViewsSign in to react to this post2CommentsOnline support for Regional WA.
Hi all, just wanted to share this link for a free online wellbeing and exercise course which starts tomorrow afternoon . It’s run by the Cancer Council for Regional WA. I’ve signed up. Might see you there xxx https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/living-well-with-exercise-and-mindfulness-registration-11006782783660ViewsSign in to react to this post0CommentsGadgetry confusion ... advice needed
Being in my late 60s and a bit overweight I am trying to get a bit fitter. I would like to know how many steps I do when I go for a walk and how hard my heart is working when I ride my old bike. I went to the shops to get some sort of gadget but am now too confused. I think they see my white hair and think I can be conned into buying the most expensive item. As I do not have a modern phone, nor do I need one, they say nothing will work without a smart one. As we could never have children I have no-one to help me work this out. I know some of you lovely ladies are really into getting fit so perhaps you can give me an idea of something which will do what I need. I don’t want to wear it all the time, not do I need to know how badly I sleep as I know that. :) Any help would be appreciated. Thanks so much. Anne940ViewsSign in to react to this post19Comments
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