Forum Discussion

debraell's avatar
debraell
Member
7 hours ago

Radiation treatment

I’m 4 sessions in of 3 weeks radiation.  Had a lumpectomy about 6 weeks ago.  I’ve also have fibromyalgia, depression and adhd.   I’m suffering badly from imposter syndrome because I know how lucky I am, so don’t come on here often.  I’m preparing for the possibility of feeling lethargic due to added fibro.  But might be fine.  I’m normally obnoxiously positive but the issue at the moment is I’m on and off angry.  My mood is terrible.  I’m yelling at the dogs and just **bleep**ty in general. Im doing all of this alone which is sort of my choice but theres really no one else.  My kids are busy with their own families and friends all have partners.  So I’m by myself.  But also feel leave me alone I’m lonely.  So not much fun to be around anyway.    In the last 8 months I’ve had 2 knee replacements (one being stuffed up), putting my mum in a nursing home with dementia and selling her home without her knowledge.  Have started a new business and Also broken off an under 12 months relationship with a narcissist.  I’m going on 5 year hormone therapy after radiation.  I’m concerned about mood and weight gain.  Which is so trivial compared to what others are going through.   It’s possibly nothing to do with diagnosis but I thought I’d reach out and check to see if anyone experienced the same.  Thanks in advance.   

1 Reply

  • SO sorry you don't have good family support debraell​   That just makes it all 'that much harder' for you.  Are they aware of your diagnosis & surgery?

    You've had a hard trot generally over the last year or so - you've had a LOT on your plate, that is for sure ... why don't you call the BCNA helpline on Monday for a confidential chat xx. Just talking to someone may help you clear your way forward xx. 1800 500 258 (Mon-Fri, 9-5)

    Getting a BC diagnosis is like taking a cricket bat hit to your head ... it really knocks you around - both mentally and physically.   THAT is the bit that takes a bit of getting used to ... your 'new normal'.

    How old are you?  Maybe you are going thru menopause - I know that it turned me into a real witch at times!!  Really Grumpy & a 'stuff you' attitude .... luckily I came good after a few years!  LOL. But there ARE things you can take to mitigate the mood swings.

    Also, Consider listening to Charlotte Tottman's Podcasts on her own experience with BC - as she explains it all very well xx  She is a specialist breast cancer Counsellor who had a double mastectomy following her own diagnosis, choosing to stay flat. She was surprised at her own reaction to the news/surgery/treatment, as she'd been counseling others for many years & thought she 'knew it all'! 

    She has done 2 ‘podcast seasons' ... check out the 1st season, right from her diagnosis onwards and how she coped, then move on to the 2nd season. She is very easy to listen to & you'll probably recognise your own reactions in many of the podcasts. 

    http://www.drcharlottetottman.com.au/my-podcast.html

    Re the hormone therapy ... not everyone puts on weight gain or has mood changes.  If you are able to continue doing the things you love doing (I hope you love your new business!)  But make time you leave 'time off' for YOU.  

    Check out this thread too - there is a lot of info on the forum & what to take with you to hospital - even 'tick sheets' that you can fill in to take with you to your appointments on your mental & physical health .... this info has been gleaned from many of our members over the years ... I hope it helps you xx
    https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/23477/a-big-welcome-to-all-new-online-network-members#latest

    take care & all the best