DCIS

I was diagnosed with wide spread high grade DCIS of the R) breast at 43 requiring mastectomy. I chose the have the L) removed also. I must say I have been very disappointed in the pre and post op counselling of my mastectomy and for my recon. Not requiring any chemo or radiation, I was sent home after my mastectomy with no follow up support. I became depressed, and felt I couldn't / shouldn't contact breast cancer services for help. I felt more like a surgical patient than a cancer one. I can't understand why I was not linked into a recovery or information program for how to cope, and what to expect post mastectomy. I was so naive with reconstruction, and wished I was made aware of of what to expect with implants. I really don't like the firm, immobile, rigidness of them. I expected soft n round! Having profession education and support would have helped me cope better. Having Invasive cancer is far more frightening, but having a mastectomy is a major emotional op and recovery. I feel my experience was not validated or recognised, that I had to be grateful and move on. I did finally access cancer services with telephone support. A support group didn't work, as I sat next to a woman with stage 4 cancer who wouldn't survive (a different situation altogether). With all the money that goes into breast cancer, I am surprised hospitals or BCNA don't run ongoing information seminars on a range of topics for people to attend. When u are depressed its hard to find help for yourself, I just thought I would be automatically linked in. I felt alone in my experience, and looking fit and well , so many people assumed I was fine. Rough road.