Hi AllI was diagnosed with breast cancer on 24 August. Core Biopsy and FNA showed that I had cancer in the tumour, in the milk ducts and lymph nodes. I freaked out at that but saw surgeon 24 hours later who was quite reassuring that she didn't feel like it had spread (I was otherwise fit and healthy). Had bone scan and CT's and she was right, it hadn't spread. Had mastectomy on right breast and full lymph node clearance on 6 Sept, just at home recovering now. Surgeon follow up appt this Thursday to find out all of the pathology results, hopefully meet Oncologist and find out 'the plan' So back to waiting again. Initially thought I would have reconstruction but I've been reading some posts on a FB page and it's freaking me out. 'm a single Mum with 3 kids (9, 11 and 15), and while initially they were freaked out they seem ok now (they're back to just leaving everything for me to do 🙄).

Hi @TeePeeThings will get a lot clearer when you have a treatment plan. A few things to bear in mind that may help: * You don't have to make a decision about reconstruction straightaway. You have plenty of time to think about it and look at your choices.* Whatever treatment is recommended is finite. It may seem a long time at the start but it can pass faster than you think.* Accept any help that's offered. Some people sail through treatment (I did mostly) and others don't. As @Sister says, your first instinct may be to protect your children from exposure to your illness, but ultimately they are resilient and will do better knowing what's happening and how they can help you.* Be cautious about websites and Dr Google. Breast cancer is very variable, websites can be hopelessly biased and people tend to talk about problems online more than successes (this site is an exception!). A trusted medical team is your best source of advice, but you will also get lots of practical tips, shared experiences and some humour here.I had a mastectomy and axillary clearance, 6 years ago next month. Well and living normally. Best wishes for next Thursday.

@Shellbelle_75 I agree. Little good comes of cancer. But if we can spread awareness and tell our stories then maybe some others will catch their disease early and have an easier time of it as a result. K xox

Hi TeePee, did they give you an information sheet on arm exercises? I have been doing them since the day after surgery. Just bending and stretching and standing away from the wall and walking your hand up as far as you can face on and sideways. The stretching really helps. If its painful only push it as far as you can and then relax and just keep trying. It will get more flex in it over time. Mycarmpit was completely numb but I am slowly getting sensation back 3 weeks after surgery. It still feels wierd in the evening a partly numb partly sore sensation under my actual arm. I am pretty sure its nerve pain. I just take some panadol and massage seems to help a lot. We are definitely all different in how we recover. Even our individual stories. I too have been very positive about this whole thing. People keep saying it's okay to cry and looking at me with those sympathy eyes. I have seen my Mum go through this and lost her when she was 39. Shocking isn't it but I have been lucky to come this far unscathed. I always felt like this was the demon I would have to face one day. I am a very strong minded and stubborn woman. People think I am vulnerable but only when it comes to other peoples care. I believe while I can walk and talk I am going okay. I am sorry you are in a bit of pain. Hopefully that will ease with time. Make sure you tell your surgeon or contact your Breast Nurse they may be able to suggest things to help. I am seeing my oncologist tomorrow.

Hi @Suzi_S61 your words in your post certainly struck a cord with me in being able to relate to your feelings and your physical description as well as that’s where I am at also

Hello @Suzi_S61 I agree with TeePee, dont feel foolish, its so much information to take in and is like information overload!Great that you had your partner with you and that the BCN was able to assist with all the follow up dates etc.A notebook is a great idea to take notes if you have to, taking someone with you and asking whatever questions your need to that will help you process. Take care of yourself and wishing you all the best with your upcoming treatment. Also, dont hesitate to call our helpline on 1800 500 258 if you need to chat with any of our cancer nurses.

New diagnosis, have had mastectomy

Blossom1961
Member
7 years ago
My cranial osteopath never hurts me and always fixes my pain, wherever it is. Unfortunately a good one is hard to find. He has fixed everything from my twisted torso to blocked lymph nodes to fluid build up in my joints. I have my mastectomy and lymph node removal in four weeks and he is making sure he is ready to prevent and/or fix any issues we might come across. Pain is not necessary for gain. Maybe try a newbie.
Sister
Member
7 years ago
I've yelped and gritted my teeth when the physio has been working on the cording but it doesn't keep hurting for days. May be a little bit tender for a couple of hours.
TeePee
Member
7 years ago
2nd chemo yesterday, feeling drunk and woozy last night, but good today, no nausea and I slept pretty well. Hair is falling it in handfulls but not really bothering me too much. A few other annoying little side effects but nothing major. So I'm pretty happy with that!

went to physio last week for cording in my arm - I felt pretty good going in, movement in arm was much improved and really good and core not too painful - but she smashed me! Dug into everything from bottom of ribs to top of chest- it hurt massively!! I screamed at one point and asked what she did, she dug into one of my drain sites...WTF?? I was bruised the next few days above my mastectomy scar and barely able to move my arm and shoulder at all. I did have a skin infection around my mastectomy scar so she said that's why it might be a bit more sensitive. She also said i was a lot sore than last time but i said last time she only did my arm and cording, not my entire chest wall...I honestly felt like I had some broken ribs. She was feeling about my car and diggin in and then decided it was the top of my rib! Is this normal????? Why did I pay $130 for this torture and should I go back? I went last Monday and only feel like it's getting back to normal now!! My daughter has been massaging the cording 1-2 times per day, should I just leave it at that?
Anonymous
7 years ago
The user and all related content has been deleted.
TeePee
Member
7 years ago
Thanks all. I feel a bit weird but otherwise ok. Took my nausea meds this morning and my 16 year old daughter gave me an injection this morning...good practice for her as she wants to be a Dr!
Giovanna_BCNA
Member
7 years ago
Hello @TeePee
Hoping all goes well with your first chemotherapy treatment today. You will be sent home with some medication for nausea, remember to drink lots at least 2 litres and make sure you have a thermometer at home. Rest up and take care of yourself today.
Sister
Member
7 years ago
Good luck, @teepee. Hope it goes smoothly for you.
kmakm
Member
7 years ago
@TeePee Good luck today. Hope it all goes smoothly. Remember, no suffering in silence! K xox
Kiwi_Angel
Member
7 years ago
Good luck for your first chemo today @TeePee
TeePee
Member
7 years ago
Thanks @Joannie, silly me, I had HITH too, but haven't spoken to any social workers or in fact looked into any assistance from the relevant organisations. I think I've felt so busy with tests, appts etc plus looking after 3 kids I haven't had time. Must get on to it.