i feel like a fraud

Hi there Joy .. I know exactly how you feel. I was diagnosed in 2010 and opted to have a mastectomy and lymph node removal. Fortunately the cancer had not spread through my body so I didn't need chemo or radiotherapy. For quite a while I felt guilty because I wasn't "sick" and wouldn't go to any events that my breast care nurse organised. Because I had no visible signs of being sick - scarves, wigs, chemo nausia etc etc I became a bit of a recluse and developed depression. I attended a BCNA Forum in Mildura and met so many ladies in various stages of their particular journeys and that was a wake-up call for me. One lady told me "go home and look in the mirror, something is missing. You have had a mastectomy and have come through the other side" I joined BCNA as a Community Liaison and "work" in my region with media, community awareness events and fundraising. I have no knowledge or total understanding of the medical processes other ladies have gone through, but because of my "gift of the gab" I am able to speak publicly of the great work done by BCNA supporting all Aussies affected by Breast Cancer. I visit small rural communities, attending shows and field days and talking to various cultural organisations and school groups. I have had several ups and downs in the past few years, both health wise and of a personal nature and the love and support I have received from my PINK Family is unbelievable. There is no "right or wrong" way of dealing with these new circumstances in your life ... everyone has a different story. By sharing yours, you are helping and reassuring some one else and in time you will be joining in the conversations on line and you will become the comforter, not the comforted. My life has changed since joining the BCNA family ..... I am proud of my achievments to date and look forward to the future... I have a lot more to give. There is life after Breast Cancer .... grab it and run with it. Much Love .... Shirl x0x

I know how you feel. 

I was diagnosed with stage 1 back in 2011 and some people would be shocked when I mentioned my cancer diagnoses. But you have hair? But you dont need chemo... Do you really have cancer? why are you complaining it cant be that bad if you didnt need chemo etc etc... 

No matter the stage cancer is cancer and it is a rollercoaster ride. I wouldnt say I felt like a fraud I was going though something huge and traumatic. But Im still hear today and helping others. 

Everyone struggles no matter their treatment plan. Yes its great youve been diagnosed early, but Im sure you would prefer not being diagnosed at all... I know I do... 

This site is a godsend. Hope you can meet some wonderful strong ladies here who can help you through this. 

Xxx 

Merylee 

 

Hi there, no it's not wrong that you feel like this. The fact is though, regardless of the stage your cancer is, I'm sure a lot of the same emotions will run through your head at some point as all of the rest of us.  Cancer is cancer! I was diagnosed 12 months ago this month and I'm only now starting to realise the seriousness of my situation. The thing to remember is we all react differently to a diagnosis and although you're feeling like a fraud, for someone else in your situation, they may find it completely devastating and struggle to cope. There's no right or wrong way to look at things. It just is what it is.  I'm so very happy for you that you have caught this early and that your treatment  is not going to be as full on as others.  If you don't want to tell others then don't. I know several people who have had bc and had radiation and hormone therapy and they didn't tell their kids or their work colleagues just a small number of close friends and family. What ever works for you. Good luck with the radiotherapy. I sincerely hope you breeze through wondering what all the fuss is about.

love Karen xox

Hello

This network is a wonderful place to share your experiences with others who are going through similar things. No two people will have the exact same experience but often we have common issues. Sometimes you will read of other people's experiences and feel empathy even though your situation is different. Sometimes you might feel fortunate that your situation is what it is and that's ok but it does not mean that you do not also need support.

Being diagnosed with any type or stage of Cancer is not a good experience. Many of us are fortunate to be diagnosed when our Cancer is still at the point where a full cure is most probable but there are no guarantees for any of us. Any treatment has side effects and we can share our experiences to lessen those effects. 

Please feel welcome to share your experiences too. You will find lots of people who have similar ones and lots of terrific advice on how to cope with everything from the physical to the emotional effects. Wishing you well for your treatment and hope that you find this network helpful. Take care. Deanne xxx