First time blogger

I'm glad this site has helped. BCNA is an amazing organisation. It really does help talking to people who truly know something about what you're going through, doesn't it. So many corageous women too-you included. X

I agree. There's no good age to tell your children you have breast cancer. Mine were 1 and 4. BUT...just as you will get through these hardships, so will they. There is only one option for us all...deal with whatever comes our way the best we can at the time. Oh life can be so challenging, can't it. I have a drawing my older son did for me when I was having chemo. It's priceless. He hated to draw but I'm so glad he did this pic for me. It has little spikes of hair on my head.

He used to go around telling everyone "MY MUM HAS BREAST CANCER" and then reel off all the facts he knew about good cells and bad cells etc. He was so gorgeous. Truth is so very important.

I've been at the computer all morning so I'd best be off...just wanted to reply to you first.

HAng in there...I think you're doing great. Being a Mum...a single mum at that...is hard enough...add BC to the mix...just be gentle on yourself. X

Wow, Mel how  incredible to have the support of teenage children through this time...and I know it must be a worry too, wondering how they are coping. They will be fine...just take it all a step at a time and try not to look too far ahead. (well, that's my advice anyway). I found there was so much to cope with mentally and physically that I made myself sick worrying about how I was going to get through it. It's nice to get to the other end and realise it's do-able!

I'll be following your progress online as will the other ladies who have responded I'm sure...so just type away whenever you feel the desire. XXX

Hi Melinda

what a crazy dream!!! but one that may have saved your life.  I got out of hospital following my mastecomy on 24th December 2007 so this time of the year always stirs something inside of me :(

I also had 6 xC chemo and survived ok.  Lots of people will give you advice, but everyone uis different. I was 36 when diagnosed and our children were 2 an 4 at the time so it was difficult juggling chemo with young children and a new business but I am living proof that it is doable and just last week turned 41.  anyway lovely to chat but I best get some sleep, Santa bought my some gym sessions and I am starting them bright and early in the morning.  Please feel free gu

Hello dear Melinda, I still remember my first post here, it was the night before my surgery in June 2011. I would like to send you all my love and support during this challenging time you are facing, and mainly I would like to tell you that it is not as hard as you think right now!! I was devastated and confused a few months ago, worried for my 5 months old baby and husband, now I tell you I feel in control of my life and happier than ever.

It is amazing that you have that dream telling you what to do, I feel like if that voice was your " inner wise woman" and you must trust on the power of your body working in harmony with your mind and soul to overcome this  difficult period.

I was also super worried about chemo, the pink ladies here must remember ha! and I need to say it is not as bad as it sounds, I had 3 cycles every 21 days and then 6 weekly cycles and I almost did not have side effects. I lost my hair after my 2nd cycle and I still have a looooooootttt of fatigue thats pretty much all! No nausea, no vomiting, no pain, nothing!

I did take with me many things that made me feel happy to the chemo unit, such as pictures of family and friends, lavander oil (which gives tranquility) nice music and please concentrate during the moment they are giving you the drugs in something nice and guide the drugs (with your mind and heart) to only touch the cancer cells and protect the good cells. I would like to recommend a book which changes my life YOU CAN CONQUER CANCER BY IAN GAWLER. if you are in melbourne or can take a few days here, please visit the gawler foundation web-site for programs starting next year, it is a beautiful place to get help, support and guidance!!

All the best in your journey and count on me in whatever I can help!!

Leonor

Hello dear Melinda, I still remember my first post here, it was the night before my surgery in June 2011. I would like to send you all my love and support during this challenging time you are facing, and mainly I would like to tell you that it is not as hard as you think right now!! I was devastated and confused a few months ago, worried for my 5 months old baby and husband, now I tell you I feel in control of my life and happier than ever.

It is amazing that you have that dream telling you what to do, I feel like if that voice was your " inner wise woman" and you must trust on the power of your body working in harmony with your mind and soul to overcome this  difficult period.

I was also super worried about chemo, the pink ladies here must remember ha! and I need to say it is not as bad as it sounds, I had 3 cycles every 21 days and then 6 weekly cycles and I almost did not have side effects. I lost my hair after my 2nd cycle and I still have a looooooootttt of fatigue thats pretty much all! No nausea, no vomiting, no pain, nothing!

I did take with me many things that made me feel happy to the chemo unit, such as pictures of family and friends, lavander oil (which gives tranquility) nice music and please concentrate during the moment they are giving you the drugs in something nice and guide the drugs (with your mind and heart) to only touch the cancer cells and protect the good cells. I would like to recommend a book which changes my life YOU CAN CONQUER CANCER BY IAN GAWLER. if you are in melbourne or can take a few days here, please visit the gawler foundation web-site for programs starting next year, it is a beautiful place to get help, support and guidance!!

All the best in your journey and count on me in whatever I can help!!

Leonor