Just diagnosed

Hi Jazzie,

Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but you have found a great support group in the Young Pink Sisters.  And yes you will get to know all the lingo and terms.

I had a Mastectomy and Diep flap reconstruction and was in hospital for 10 days- so a little different to what you are having- but here is my list of what to take to hospital

I-Pod-I couldnt keep my eyes open at times post surgery, and couldnt concentrate on the TV or reading- so putting in the earphones, shutting my eyes and listening to my favourite music was great.

Soap- take a nice soap or body wash- maybe you can suggest a friend buy some as a gift.

Hair shampoo, conditioner

Lip balm

I wore the hospital gowns at night- my room was warm so I was sweaty at times- and would change after my shower in the morning into loose lightweight tracky daks. 

I also bought some long-length shirts that button down the front a couple of sizes too big- again short sleeves as the hospital was warm.  Large t-shirts would be ok too.

I wasnt allowed to lift my arm (side of mastectomy/sentinal node removal) so needed tops that would go through arm and over head easily (hence botton-thru are easier).  I also had drip and drains to work around. 

Wear your pretty bras into hospital but make sure you take an old pair- minus underwires.  

If there is a Bresat Care nurse at the hospital- contact her as she should be able to give you some suggestions re bras etc.

All the best

Carolyn