Forum Discussion

ky_power's avatar
ky_power
Member
15 years ago

1 year on.

Next week marks the 1st anniversary of being diagnosed. I thought I was travelling o.k, but I have been having terrible axiety over a reoccurrence and have become convinced  I have cancer in my remaining breast.

My Gp prescribed some anti depressants and to send me a few weeks early for my 1st ultrasound and mammo. all seems fine.

I have also become depressed about the fact that i cant afford a reconstruction. Does anybody ever get a recostruction through public hospitals?

i,m 30 and dont won' to keep hiding my chest', and not wanting to have sex for the rest of my life. i've been really positive but now i feel angry

 

2 Replies

  • Kathy_BCNA's avatar
    Kathy_BCNA
    Member
    15 years ago

    Hi Ky

    This is Kathy from BCNA's Policy Team.

    I just wanted to let you know that breast reconstruction is available free of charge through the public hospital system in all states and territories in Australia. As Moira suggested, you can talk to a Breast Care Nurse, or your GP or breast surgeon about it. You can also contact your local public hospital direct to make an appointment to talk to someone there.

    I also wanted to say that your fear about your breast cancer coming back is absolutely normal. We hear from many women who have this worry, especially around the one year mark after their diagnosis - exactly where you are now. The next issue of The Beacon, which comes out in June, is around the topic of emotional wellbeing and breast cancer, and will include an article on fear of recurrence. The clinical psychologist we spoke to said "it is very common and very normal for women to worry that their breast cancer may return'. If you are still feeling particularly anxious, you may like to talk to your GP again about some strategies to help deal with it.

    All the best, Ky.

    Kathy

  • TonyaM's avatar
    TonyaM
    Member
    15 years ago

    Hi Ky,

    I understand how you feel.I'm almost 1yr on from my mastectomy and chemo. You have to adjust your clothes and as for naked --don't go there! I feel like this and I'm 55.So you'd be feeling it way worse cos of your young age. I think there are some public hospitals that do reconstructions -ask your surgeon. Hop on this site for lots of support.

                                    Tonya xx