Feeling Overwhelmed

Welcome to this network where you'll get lots of support. The first time I got bc,I told everyone and then found myself consoling them and putting on a brave front. The second time around(7years later)I didn't say anything until I knew my surgery date and I'd had time to get my head around the bc diagnosis again.There is no right or wrong way to deal with family/friends but when I found it abit overwhelming,I'd get my husband to answer all phone calls and say I was resting or whatever.You just want to hide away sometimes and have peace/quiet.We just have to remember that they care about us and it's a shock for them too.If you've had a lumpectomy then pain wise,recovery wise, a mastectomy op is much the same. Obviously,it can be harder psychologically for many women.Initially,I was just glad the cancer and the breast was gone.But after that,I took awhile to adjust and feel ok about body image etc.I guess you know your children better than anyone and what they can comprehend. Mine were older at the time but thinking back when they were 5 and 7,I would have been honest and explained that a bad disease called cancer was in my breast and the doctor had to take it off.It would be all gone and I'd be fine.But it might make me abit sad and they could help with hugs n cuddles.I wouldn't want them to over hear the word cancer,see me or others crying and not know what was going on.I had a miscarriage when my girls were that age and I was honest with them,in simple terms ofcourse.The breast cancer journey is a tough ride and you don't have to be brave at this network.It's a great place to vent your fears and frustrations.We know what you are going through.Big hug,Tonya xx