Hi @Danielle49
It's not unusual for it to take more than a couple of weeks to recover from a lumpectomy. There can be some deep bruising which can linger and unless there are signs of an infection (you'd know about that, believe me, your boob will be hot and swollen and have it's own heartbeat) don't stress about it too much. Ask your breast care nurse or GP to have a look if you are unsure.
You are right, chemo affects us all in different ways. Some people sail through it, others really struggle. There is a set complications or poor reactions that you will be well advised about before you start. Infections can happen, but they are not that common and as long as you do your part and keep a really close eye on what is happening to your body and get help as soon as you think there is a problem, they can be managed.
The whole business is hugely inconvenient and the prospect of six months of treatment is daunting. The last couple of sessions can be very difficult from a physical and mental perspective, but the majority of people manage to drag themselves across the line. We are tougher than we think we are.
As things progress don't hesitate to ask specific questions. We all have or own 'hacks' for managing the problems we encounter--there is such a lot to learn and what works for one person, may not help another. Very much trial and error, but you will have a skilled team looking after you--it's in their best interests for you to have a good result too.
Wishing you good luck, Marg