If Only I'd Known...

Hi, I had a lumpectomy to remove 18mm invasive cancer and sentinel node biopsy on 5 May followed by further surgery today to remove a further 37mm of DCIS.  Each time I see the surgeon to get pathology results something changes.  Good news after first surgery - not in nodes...phew, but found out HER2 positive so chemo and herceptin required.  Now, again, a further waiting game to see if there are clear margins after DCIS.  All I can suggest is to read the literature given - My journey Kit, plus another great book recommend within My journey kit 'Breast Cancer - Taking Control'.  Most importantly - exercise.  There was a pilates DVD included in a kit sent with a bra after surgery - did you receive that?  I do it daily.  Also walk, move as much as possible - the endorphins make you feel more positive.

I've also started a spreadsheet...it started with medical costs, then I started logging hours of work (I work remotely when I feel up to it, work did not request this - I do this as it makes me feel useful), exercise completed (walks/meditation, pilates), then countries I've visited, countries I want to visit, things I'm grateful for - even out of negatives something that I can be grateful for, calendar of appointments, plus separate tab of contact I've had from family, friends and work colleagues.  The more I've added, the more I do - the better I feel.  Also keeps the mind active and helps you to remember things when you feel foggy.

I'm also attending a fantastic support group that runs for 6 weeks - finishing next week, where up to 20 patients going through different stages of treatment from diagnosis to surgery to chemo/radio.  There have been guest speakers from medical oncologists on chemo, radiologists on radiotherapy and phsyio for lymphodema.  Ask your hospital what support groups are available in your area.

Thinking of you xo