Forum Discussion

Beatha's avatar
Beatha
Member
5 months ago

Shock is settling

it’s been two weeks since my diagnosis.  I live in regional coastal NSW and I’m going to start here by being very grateful for the speed of testing and action down here.  Unexpected really. I found a lump but it turns out it’s an undefined tumour about 2.5cm. Some stuff is still not definite because I can’t have an MRI thanks to having a heart failure device (super pacemaker).  So having a scout clip placed next week with probable lumpectomy in two to three weeks.  I feel confident I’m being cared for OK.  Glad I’m retired and no longer working.  But still overwhelmed by this and trying to manage my usual approach of knowing every little detail about anything impacting me.  I’m listening to my anxiety for once.  Oh. My surgeon told me I’m not going to die!  That was particularly comforting.  Dat by day this thing is feeling more manageable. 
anxiety
new-diagnosis
  • scram's avatar
    scram
    Member
    5 months ago
    Hi Beatha, as another new member to this club I’d like to say welcome but this is a club I wouldn’t wish on anyone.  However, we are not alone, there are lots of women and some men also travelling this road.  It’s scary, overwhelming, confusing, and has put a big pause in my life as I am sure it has yours.  Be kind to yourself and be selfish, prioritise your needs. 
    I am one week post lumpectomy and all nodes removed. I am uncomfortable and frustrated as normally very active. I have had to accept that this is the way it is for now but it will get better. 
    My very best wishes for your journey.  
  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    5 months ago
    Discovering you are not going to die (at least not any time soon) is immensely comforting. Like you, I wanted to know as much as possible. If you can detach yourself sufficiently, cancer is fascinating. You’d just prefer you weren’t an active participant. Best wishes for your treatment and recovery. 
  • Beatha's avatar
    Beatha
    Member
    5 months ago
    thank you.  Every day the shock is lessening and now having a better idea of the immediate path I feel more in control.  Having a Scout clip in next week as I can’t have MRI.   Then lumpectomy.  In a few weeks.  Leaving post surgery on the back burner for now.  I think one of the most important things I’ve done is tell my friends clearly what I need, a listening heart, and don’t need, other people’s experiences.  Online I can log out, turn off, stop reading and take it in bit by bit. But it’s too hard to stop a loved one mid flow.  At seventy, for the first time in my life I’m putting my mental and physical health first as my number one priority.  Wishing anyone here a journey through this that allows you to prioritise yourself and your needs.  We can do this.  And we will because the only way through is through it.  
  • cranky_granny's avatar
    cranky_granny
    Member
    5 months ago
    @Beatha. Similar words were said to me. Actually it was something else will probably end my life not the cancer.   8 years from diagnosis and 7 from finishing initial treatment  though Im still here 
  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    5 months ago
    Sorry to see you join us here, @Beatha ... all the best for your ongoing scans & treatments. xx

    Living in a regional town, you may well qualify for fuel and accommodation rebates if you have to travel to your appointments/surgery.  We have a private group here that you can join - we try to keep up to date with any changes in the various states' Travel Schemes. 
    Click here,  Living in Regional, Rural and Remote areas & join.
    Here is an external link to the most recent info on all states Travel Schemes - some cover taxi fares too, if private cars aren't available  .... 
    https://www.ruralhealth.org.au/sites/default/files/publications/pats-fact-sheet-and-guide-2024.pdf

    Yep, take one day at a time, one hour if needed.  Lots of deep breaths are needed too ..... stay away from Dr Google & ask your Medical Team and Breast Care Nurse the important questions .... or us. 

    This link has lots of good info on the Forum - including what to take to hospital with you and some other 'off topic' threads that you might like to take part in  ;) 
    https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/23477/a-big-welcome-to-all-new-online-network-members#latest

    take care & all the best xx