Forum Discussion
SLD230317
9 years agoMember
Newly diagnosed
I've retyped this post so many times I wasn't sure what to say. I got my results today and I feel numb. I've been quite calm, not many tears, but I know it hasn't hit me yet. At this stage, it's early breast cancer but I meet with the surgeon tomorrow. We are new to where we live and apart from my husband and two young children, we have no family support nearby and haven't made many friends yet so feeling a little isolated, so I need to take advantage of any support I can get. Thank you.
34 Replies
- Pammy46MemberHi SLD
if your breast cancer is early is there a reason for the mastectomy? - SLD230317MemberSoldier Crab - we have one in pre-school (4 next month) and one at school (9 this Sunday). My husband and I are going to speak to them but trying to decide if we tell them this evening and then the birthday celebrations will take our minds off it or wait until her birthday is over and talk early next week. Unfortunately at the moment I don't have anyone to come and help. My family are back in the UK and my husbands family in WA.
Aine - my decision over the weekend is if I have a double mastectomy or not. Your input and experience would be valuable.
Thank you ladies - AfraserMemberNot what you wanted but now you know what you are dealing with. Recovery can be quite quick, and I certainly had very little discomfort. Once that's done and the pathology is clearer you can focus on the next step. Feel free to ask anything about what to expect, what to take etc. Lots of people here with immensely practical experience. We'll be thinking of you.
- AineGMemberHi SLD
I know it's probably not what you wanted to hear today, but I had a double mastectomy just over six months ago and I'm already back playing football :) . Like you I had only my partner for support and of course the kids! (My family are overseas). Oddly being home from work for an extended period, I got to spend a lot of time with them and that was a real highlight for me.
My advice, cry lots, take the drugs and hug your kids.
Good luck with the next part of your journey, you'll be out the other side before you know it
Aine - SoldierCrabMemberI am typically individual also @SLD230317
So know even though I am complicated I have come through this roller coaster and I am living and well.
hugs and glad you are getting in touch with the Breast Care Nurse. she will be able to help you with answering questions and getting some supports in place for you.
Do you children go to preschool or school, Please let them know what is happening so they can support you.
Cancer council also has some support services if you contact them they will be able to let you know what services are available in your area.
Do you have the option for someone to come and help you when you get home since you are not near family now?
Hugs
Soldier Crab - SLD230317MemberThank you all for you comments. Saw the surgeon this morning. Unfortunately in typical 'ME' style, my case is "complicated" so it looks like a mastectomy for me this Wednesday. It's surprising me that I'm feeling very calm and controlled in my emotions. I know that may not always be the case. My husband has ordered 'My Jouney Kit' and I'm waiting to hear from the bfeast care nurse. Thank you again for taking the time to comment, it helps.
- Brenda5MemberWelcome, but sorry you are in our forum. Your breast care nurse will be the one to hit up for local support as that's their job, the middle man/woman between specialists and you. If possible take someone with you to each appointment as two sets of ears are better than one.
- AineGMemberHi
Good luck tomorrow! I've just hit six months and happy to report I'm back to "normal" - new normal and better normal. I too have small kids and they helped me keep it real and stay in the moment. As scary as it is, treatment is so much better and your team will guide you through. You'll have lots of questions and lots of choices, whatever choices you make one piece of advise that helped me was "go with what you feel is best for you, when you look back in ten years time, this will be just a moment in time".
Good luck
Aine - nikkidMemberHi @SLD230317 - so sorry to hear your news. We have all been there! It is a surreal time, especially when you feel so well. The next few days and weeks will seem like a crazy whirlwind but know that you are in control of the choices you make. Ask lots of questions (here, of your surgeon, breast care nurse etc), take notes and do what is best for you.
Having a BC diagnosis can send you into a spin - but you will do so well. Already you say you're calm, this is a great start. Allow yourself to feel sad, confused, even angry....and know that we will walk beside you.
Thinking of of you tomorrow Nikki xxxx - primekMemberWelcome @SLD230317 and sorry you have had to join us. It can be a shock when you first hear the news. I was able to see my results in private so had my tears well and truly over before seeing the Dr. I know when I found my lump I was calm and pragmatic. ..I knew it was cancer I just needed the evidence.
So the next few weeks will be a lot to take in and we are here to support you as best we can. Ask anything. No question is dumb.
Kath x