Forum Discussion
Afraser
7 years agoMember
Hi @TeePee
Things 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.
Things 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.