Feeling scared

Sorry to hear about your breast cancer but welcome to this network. You should be able to get a free Berlei post surgery bra from BCNA.Usually your breast care nurse orders it .If you don't have a nurse then ring BCNA. Make sure you have some button down the front pjs and a loose shirt to wear home. After surgery you will most likely have an elastic type binder around your chest. They might take down the dressing the day after surgery - ask for pain killers before they do that. You will probably have 2 drains either side of your chest and they are a pain,especially if you go home with them in.The first 3 days post op are painful but tolerable and then you recover quickly but do your arm exercises.I was able to drive 3 weeks later and return to work. It may be a few weeks before you can wear a bra so I wore singlets and a loose shirt -maybe a waistcoat or scarf over that.It was winter! At 6 weeks I was fitted with a proper prosthesis which went into my mastectomy bra and I felt alot more comfortable and confident.It takes awhile to get used to it but once I'm dressed I don't really think about it. It's been over 2 years now for me and I'm fine ,enjoying life.This was my second bout of breast cancer -my first was in 2003 when I had a lumpectomy.It's normal to feel teary and anxious cos you are losing part of yourself. It's a big deal and it impacts on your life on many levels.But just cope with it bit by bit and blog back here for info and support. Your pink sisters here know what you are going through.Have you received "my journey kit"yet?If not then ring BCNA.

                                     Tonya xx