IN SHOCK
My name is Trina, I'm 45 years old (I have a 7 year old son) and until last week though Breast Cancer was something that happened to 'other people'..
I found a lump last Sunday, went to the Docto...
Forum Discussion
Hi Trina,
I was diagnosed in mid-Dec and like you, I was in shock in the week immediately after. Once I'd seen the surgeon and had a treatment plan, my shock subsided as I had something to focus on - surgery.
As far as telling people, I found that it was important to tell my closer friends as I would be needing their support - emotional and practical. And they have been wonderful. Like you, too, I had a get-together of old friends earlier this year and wondered if I should tell all. I ended up only telling the 2 that have consistently kept in touch with me over the years rather than the group.
I did inform work of my diagnosis as soon as I knew as I was aware that there would be lots of time off for me ahead with surgery and treatment. I am in the middle of chemo right now (with 6 weeks of radiation to follow) and my work has been supportive - I front up when I can and stay as long as I can. I think employers are more sympathetic when they are informd of the reasons for sick leave. Afterall, it is cancer and it is a fight for survival!
At the end of the day, tell the friends with whom you are most comfortable with/closest to as they will most likely provide you with the support you need. As the ladies on this site has advised on different issues, do what is comfortable for you. I think you will just know who to tell and when.
Good luck with this week as you head off to your surgeon's appt. And remember what Chris has advised above - bring a friend as two ears are better than one for absorbing all that information and for just being there.
Take care, Jacquie