Newly diagnosed and type 1 diabetic

Julesuptree

Hello, I am just newly diagnosed (on Friday) and to add another element to this, am type 1 diabetic. I have only been told so far that it is definitely cancer and that it has spread to my lyphnodes. I am hoping to hear from the specialist/surgeon tomorrow about treatment, if possible and to find out if its spread to any other organs.

I was in shock, angry with myself that I didn't pick this up sooner and then angry with myself that I couldn't cry about this. I told myself to let myself cry at 4am and don't think I've stopped since except to run teenagers to work and friends - they don't know yet.

I think I am going through all the emotions now as I felt a mix of needing to vomit, faint, and am I having a heart attack.

Are there any other type 1 diabetics that are going through this and come out the other side? 

Cath62

Oh @Julesuptree, this is such a scary and overwhelming time for you. Big breaths. It is definitely ok to cry. I did at the start. I cried for 2 weeks.

There is so much to find out yet. So much unknown and that's the worst. You have to meet your doctors and see what the treatment will be. Rest assured however that treatment is really advanced now and will be specific to you. 

Try to keep busy at this time. Stay away from Google. It isn't helpful. Once you know the treatment and get started with it you will feel better. 

What is your next appointment? Can you take someone with you? It helps as there is so much information to process. Do you have support of family or friends?

This is a big emotional ride too and it's ok. It is normal to feel so many different things, especially at this time. It's going to get better and be ok.

This group are just great. We are all here to listen and help if you have questions.

I do not have diabetes but I had other health issues when I was diagnosed in 2020. The doctors will manage the whole situation so don't worry. Maybe there is someone on here who also had diabetes who may comment.

Best wishes and sending you a big hug. 

arpie

I am so sorry to read of your diagnosis @Julesuptree - you would still be in shock just now too, so cry all that you want - it is cathartic too, helping to release those pent up emotions. xx

My husband was Type 2 diabetic on Ozempic and we had to modify his breakfast on his chemo days (more protein, less carbs) as the anti nausea meds (part of the infusion and tablets for 2 days post chemo) are 'gluco/carbs' so needed to monitor his sugar levels more closely over that time too. (Dexamethasone is a prescription-only synthetic adrenocorticosteroid with glucocorticoid activity.)  The Nurses will usually do your bloods immediately before chemo (if you have it) to check the level & can adjust the anti nausea meds accordingly.   

Adding to @Cath62's reply, definitely take a trusted friend or family member with you to all appointments & also consider recording them on your phone, as it is hard to remember all that has been said, otherwise.  Jump onto this thread & read up on other areas in the blog that may interest you (we even have some funny bits, as well as gardens, arts & craft, pets & other topics ...) Including a link to what to take to hospital etc.  There are 'tick lists' that you can check out too, to take with you to your appointments, assessing yourself, mentally & physically.
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/23477/a-big-welcome-to-all-our-new-members#latest

It is a real roller coaster ride right now - so your emotions will be all over the place.   You don't have to tell everyone right up - it can be on an 'as needs' basis ..... I didn't tell some family members for over a year.  It can be distressing telling them 'personally' as it makes you relive the diagnosis every time - so I used an email that I continued to update as time & treatment went on.  Some set up a private Facebook Page or even an online private blog.

Take care, look after yourself, and if you find yourself getting very sad, please ring the helpline & chat with our Mods/Counsellors ... 1800 500 258.  

Julesuptree

Thankyou both so much for your replies and you are spot on, this is such a roller coaster ride and I've only just begun.
I'm talking to work today about plans moving forward, making sure everything is in order so I can silence all calls and just concentrate on me. I'm a kitchen gardener and work in a very beautiful and special place that will be important to my healing and have a wonderful partner, children and family around meIt feels like the hardest battle Ive ever faced, but Im ready to take it on. 

This chat group will be such a great place for me to release and seek comfort. Thankyou. xx

Tomobun

Hi @julesuptree, 
I hope a meeting with your work regarding your new health condition went well. and I'm sorry to hear about the new diagnosis. It must be making you overwhelmed. 

You are not the first patient with DMT1 for your oncologist, breast surgeon, breast cancer nurse, or endocrinologist. You can talk to them and ask for help with managing your conditions.

You may have already used the service, but in NSW, we, who have chronic health conditions, have 6 complimentary visits per year with some allied healthcare services. This includes dietitians. Victoria would have the same or similar system. Your GP can organize this service for you.

Best wishes

arpie

That is wonderful that you have a supportive family, kids & partner - and your workplace will certainly be your 'healing space' xx

All the best with your Surgeon's appt .... make sure you get copies of ALL your medical reports, biopsies etc, and get a special box to put them all in, so you can lay your hands on them, as needed.

Ask your surgeon about a Breast Care Nurse - some surgeons have their own, others would use the McGrath BC Nurses - I am almost certain there is a wonderful breast care nurse at the Mornington Peninsula, tho this article is a few years old now.    

Jo Lovelock is a Breast Cancer Nurse, who's HAD breast cancer who you can contact.  0477 770 360
https://www.morningtonpeninsulamagazine.com.au/jos-loving-touch-is-making-a-difference/

Take care xx

Julesuptree

@arpie Thankyou so much for contact details! I will definately look her up. x