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How do you go back to normal?
I have had a whirlwhind of a journey over the past 6weeks. Found a lump, did all the testing, had stage 2 IDC, HR+, left breast removed, direct to implant done while having breast removed. 5 active tumors were found and 4 lymph nodes removed. A week post surgery, I get my results- all clear. there is no cancer and no chemo or radiation is required. I am relieved but now just confused. How do you go on with normal life? I will start Hormone Therapy in a few weeks but it's such a weird feeling knowing that I am all ok. Please don't get me wrong that I am relieved but it's taking a while to process. Anyone else feel the same?83ViewsSign in to react to this post2CommentsBreast prosthesis
looking for recommendations for brand of breast prothsesis? How are they sized- looking for a D ( I was a 10G prior surgery)982ViewsSign in to react to this post20CommentsCrop tops
Hi everyone I’ve had a double mastectomy and I’m looking for suggestions on crop tops to wear without any type of cup…..just plain crop tops to wear under my clothing to hide the scaring. all the ones I’ve found have some form of cup or padding inside including at Kmart. i haven’t found prosthetics to be comfortable so am going flat and proud but would like some form of top under my clothes. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated thanks Pip96ViewsSign in to react to this post1CommentNatural & complementary therapies
Hi BC friends I love natural therapies. Complementary therapies. not the weird & whacky ‘cures’ that are out there, but those that support my body & soul through this journey with cancer. even food as medicine. alongside the treatment that is suggested by Drs. anyone else interested in this kind of thing? 🌿216ViewsSign in to react to this post7CommentsCellulitis
Me again :) So I’ve had some pain under my Cancer boobie like blind pimple pain but twice as bad as I couldn’t wear a bra...I had a doctors appointment this afternoon as I was getting dressed I noticed the redness had now covered 3/4 of my boob. Anyway doctor tells me it’s cellulitis...the infection started in the area I got burnt from radiation but cleared up by first week of January...has anyone ever experienced this? I have started antibiotics more tablets to take :( thank you Nellie422ViewsSign in to react to this post12Comments- 348ViewsSign in to react to this post12Comments
Hello
Hi all! It has been quite some time since I have frequented the BCNA online forum. I was an avid contributor when I was going through diagnosis and treatment. Just wanted to come on and say Hello and let others know that are starting out that as time goes on and you take on treatment a routine starts and eventually you can start to see brighter days. Me, along with others are living proof that life takes on a lighter, brighter side once the trauma of diagnosis and treatment settles and you can focus on getting through it and hopefully better for it. It is evolving! Fatigue is one to watch for and understand as it really takes it out of you but eventually a new normal evolves! The Kylie Minogue documentary that Kristen has so eloquently spoken of shows there's light at the end of it all. More Than a Documentary: Why Kylie's story means so much | BCNA Online Network Best wishes to all142ViewsSign in to react to this post2CommentsBest Supplements for Hair Growth and Thickness | Recommendations by Expert
I researched the best supplements for hair growth and thickness for the past few days because I have been noticing my hair getting thinner and dull lately. I read reviews on Healthline, Forbes Health, and Medical News Today, and they are marking these two as the best options in 2025: Nutrafol Men's Hair Growth Supplements https://www.amazon.com/Nutrafol-Supplement-Clinically-Thicker-Looking-Stronger-Feeling/dp/B00LTZEEGQ Divi Scalp Serum for Thinning Hair https://www.amazon.com/Divi-Hair-Scalp-Serum-Women/dp/B0BQ3Z7NV7?th=1 From what I found, Nutrafol helps nourish hair from within by providing essential vitamins like biotin, zinc, and marine collagen, which can improve hair thickness and reduce shedding. On the other hand, Divi Scalp Serum works externally by revitalizing the scalp with caffeine, peptides, and amino acids, creating a healthier environment for stronger hair growth.However, I am still unsure which one might work best in the long term. My main goal is to reduce hair fall, promote thicker strands, and maintain a healthier scalp overall.Has anyone here tried either of these or found a supplement that truly worked for you? I would love to hear some real experiences or expert advice before deciding which one to go for.thanks in advance for your suggestions1.6KViewsSign in to react to this post4CommentsQ&A discussion on the Financial Impact of Breast Cancer, March 18th
Join Annabel Crabb for a FREE Q&A as they explore the hidden costs of breast cancer, financial stress, and how research and support services are helping patients and families navigate these challenges. Wednesday 18 March 5:00-6:30pm AEDT Free & online Moderated by Author & Journalist, Annabel Crabb Sign up here - and you can also add questions that you would like the panel to address: https://www.breastcancertrials.org.au/qa-events/qa-the-financial-impact-of-breast-cancer/ If you are just diagnosed - make sure you check this presentation out - maybe even record it so you can go back over it & make notes on how to mitigate these rising costs. Many of us have been financially impacted by our Breast Cancer diagnosis - just the cost of getting to the treatment/surgery, both fuel and accommodation, altho this can be offset by various Patient Assistance Schemes if you choose to use it - PLUS the loss of income whilst you are undergoing treatment/surgery! ..... Those who live in Rural, Regional and Remote areas of Australia are particularly impacted. These unexpected costs can not only cause financial stress - it can impact your marriage, your relationship with your kids, friends & siblings .... Sadly, some marriages don't survive a breast cancer diagnosis & treatment. There are also the 'LARGE gaps' between surgery & treatment charges and Medicare and Private Health Insurance rebates .... running into many THOUSANDS! I even had to pay $500 for one specific blood test that my surgeon felt was necessary - but it wasn't covered by Medicare (and Private Health Insurance rarely covers blood tests!) I stopped counting after it passed the $8,000 mark .... and I was retired, so I didn't have to factor in lost earnings as well! SO ... HOW much 'out of pocket' costs do YOU reckon that you've had to wear!??103ViewsSign in to react to this post0Comments🏃♂️ VOLUNTEERS WANTED – Carman’s Fun Run Melbourne 💙
📅 15 February | Melbourne We’re looking for awesome volunteers to help make the Carman’s Fun Run a huge success! ✨ All volunteers receive complimentary food and drinks ✨ Join the crew for all or part of the day ✨ Be part of something truly special If you’d like to get involved, we’d love to have you on the team! 👉 Register to volunteer at:41ViewsSign in to react to this post0CommentsWishing everyone a Safe & Happy Xmas.
Wishing everyone tomorrow - a very Happy and Safe Christmas. xx And may 2026 be kind to you xx You've done the hard yards, so I hope you can relax & put your feet up & have others fuss around you xx Take care on the roads if you need to travel - take care on the roads anyway!! (The invasion usually happens on Boxing Day here!) I hope that those undergoing treatment are also able to enjoy the day xx I'll be visiting friends for a '2 house' celebration - we skip between her & her sister's house (next door) for various parts of the celebration, then back to the first house for a welcome swim in their pool in the afternoon (as it it is supposed to get up to about 40˚ tomorrow!) I don't often swim ... maybe once every 5 years ... I prefer to be on TOP of the water (in my fishing kayak) than in it, swimming! LOL I don't even have a swim suit - I just wear a pair of boardies & a rashie! 😆 l'll take them and a towel, just in case I decide to dip a toe in the water! 😂 I am taking my famous blueberry & raspberry twisted tart for dessert (recipe below) .... it is yummy with whipped cream or ice cream and super easy to make. Don't 'overfill' with the berry mix - it will just spill out onto the tray & become toffee - this is one recipe where 'less is more'! It is equally yummy, hot, warm or cold!! I thought the '16 slices' looked a bit stingy, so usually make 12 slices! ENJOY116ViewsSign in to react to this post1Comment💊Have you checked the compatibility of your breast cancer treatment and dietary supplements?
Wellness isn’t just about exercise and healthy meals - it’s also about the little choices we make every day, like whether to take dietary supplements. Many of us use supplements to support our health, but did you know they can sometimes interact with other treatments? If you’re on hormonal therapy for breast cancer, it’s worth having a quick conversation with your healthcare team before adding new supplements, or checking in with your GP if you are currently taking any. This isn’t about avoiding them altogether, it’s about making sure everything works together for your best health. Simple tips to keep in mind: ✅Check in with your healthcare team before starting something new. ✅ Remember that “natural” doesn’t always mean risk-free. ✅ Stay informed so your wellness plan supports your goals. Want to learn more? This article explains how supplements can interact with hormonal therapy: 👉 Supplement Interactions With Hormonal Therapy Your breast cancer journey will be unique, and awareness is an important part of your empowerment 💙159ViewsSign in to react to this post0CommentsEndocrine Therapy and Pelvic Floor
Hi all I had one dose of goserelin 2 months ago and within a week of reducing oestrogen levels, my pelvic floor had given way!! I had my second baby months ago so it was always weak. Gynaecologist said my uterus has come way down like a prolapse and a hysterectomy will relieve my symptoms. I went off the goserelin and my pelvic floor return to normal. Oestrogen is very important for the strength of the pelvic floor. My question is, has anyone had pelvic floor issues when they went on endocrine therapy and what did u do to relive it all?199ViewsSign in to react to this post2CommentsLymphatic Drainage Massage Suggestions Brisbane Area
Hi all, Hope it is ok to post this question and hopefully I am in the best forum to ask, I am looking for a good lymphatic drainage massage person in the Brisbane area? My surgeon has given me one name but I can't seem to get an appointment for months as she seems very booked out and I am not having much luck finding anyone else. I really value other peoples recommendations with cancer type things (for want of a better word!) and am hoping someone may have a suggestion? Thank you in advance :)280ViewsSign in to react to this post5CommentsListening to Raelene Boyle's podcast is well worth it, as well as Charlotte Tottman's!
We often recommend that new members have a listen to Charlotte Tottman's podcasts on dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis http://www.drcharlottetottman.com.au/my-podcast.html. and I've only just listened to Raelene Boyle's - and it is terrific! SO ... If you've never listened to the interview with Raelene Boyle .... it is well worth listening to. Raelene was diagnosed at the same time that Lyn Swinburne was first starting her support for women with breast cancer (out of a Bakers Delight office!) just under 30 years ago. She was then diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, twice! She is still going strong & is an Ambassador and founding board member of BCNA https://www.bcna.org.au/resource-hub/podcasts/upfront-about-breast-cancer/upfront-about-breast-cancer/episode-21-raelene-boyle-on-pulling-herself-out-of-the-darkness/293ViewsSign in to react to this post3CommentsTamoxifen and inflammation
Diagnosed April 2023 and completed treatments with partial mastectomy and reconstruction. Been struggling on Tamoxifen with inflammation in my hip and knee’s. Dec 2024 needed biopsy’s for two new lumps which were clear…thank goodness. I have mammogram next month to check lumps and both breasts [Moved by Moderator for Mandy_79 from Activity section: 04/03/2025]338ViewsSign in to react to this post5CommentsENCORE - Hunter region
Hi ladies, Many of you may be familiar with the YWCA ENCORE program. 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 hydrotherapy 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 Encore programs! Unfortunately ENCORE is no longer running nationally.... however YWCA Hunter has successfully secured funding to reboot ENCORE in the Hunter region. * SINGLETON - We're taking enrolments now! If you live in Singleton or surrounding areas we'd love for you to join us. 29 April-17 June 12:30-2:30PM Singleton Gym and Swim * NEWCASTLE - venue/dates will be released in the near future-most likely to be held in Oct/Nov. Please reach out if you have any questions: [email protected] / 02 4929 2954 . More info on the program and registration info can be found here: www.ywcahunterregion.org.au/encore ; Thanks Nat, Caz & Yela YWCA Hunter Region Inc. 02 4929 2954 [email protected] www.ywcahunterregion.org.au/encore ;63ViewsSign in to react to this post0CommentsRunning on Chemo (ROC)
Day 1/112 chemo every 2 weeks - 16 weeks This morning I was up early and did a 30 min easy paced run. I wanted to draw a line in the sand and see what distance I can run easy in 30 mins before chemo (BC) I wasn’t fresh as I had run 3x 1k repeats the day before and walked 5k with friends the night before. So I wanted a measure of what distance I could cover in 30 mins while fatigued BC. A few weeks before my diagnosis, in December 23, I entered the Great Ocean Road 1/2 marathon which is to be held on 19th May 24, tomorrow. Needless to say I had to cancel when diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer with treatments including certain breast surgery & lymph node surgery followed by chemo and radiation. However I continued to train initially walking after surgery on 13 February 24, building that up to 10k then getting back to running after a couple of weeks. I’m not doing any spectacular times though, just doing it. So, since I can’t do the 1/2 marathon at the Great Ocean road, I planned another achievable road trip with my friends to do a 10k on Good Friday 30 March. However, I then found out on 7 March I had to go back for a 2nd surgery on my breast in early April. Knowing this i decided I had no intention of running the 10k either but I didn’t tell my friends that. I just went along with our travel plans. Three days before the scheduled run date I went out for an easy walk and run over a 10k distance. I had actually been inspired by two separate sightings of a male runner the day before when I was out for a walk with my partner. They were obviously doing a long slow run and they appeared to be running very slowly. And I thought to myself “but they’re doing it”. I was inspired😜 Long story short I decided to run the 10k on 29 March. I managed to complete it in a very satisfying 78 min time. It was all very slow jogging pace but I didn’t have to walk. 2 days later I had the 2nd surgery. At the appointment with my oncologist, prior to chemo (PC) he said I will probably feel tired while on chemo. So he said if I feel tired I should walk around the block. So I said “so when you say I should walk around the block, is that all I should do? What if I’m used to walking 10k? Or running “. He said I should continue to do what is normal exercise for me. So my strategy for running on chemo is this, I have introduced another few measures for myself over the next four months. I have no expectations that I will be even able to run 1k at a time, from the stories I have read about other runners while on chemo. But, I hope to have a go. The month PC, I did these trials. 3x 1k repeats 5k run time 10k run time 30 mins running (distance covered) I would love to hear from anyone else who is on chemo and trying to keep active. If you are already running on chemo (ROC) then please share I’d love to be inspired and motivated. If you too like me are new to this perhaps we can inspire and motivate ea…324ViewsSign in to react to this post7CommentsBreast Surgeons - South Australia
Looking for recommendations for private breast surgeons. Eventually want double mastectomy and DIEP flap147ViewsSign in to react to this post2CommentsArt Therapy
Does anyone know if there is anywhere we can access Art Therapy (I am in Melbourne)? I have just had surgery and am recovering atm before beginning radiation. I would love to do some art therapy as part of my recovery, but can’t really afford it with all the medical bills and not working.135ViewsSign in to react to this post3Comments
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