Meeting the oncologist

Back in 2003 when I had my first bout of breast cancer,I had a full node clearance.It was puffy and felt like I had a football under my arm-ofcourse it wasn't that big,just the sensation.Radiation on top of surgery only made matters worse.But once it was over it settled down after a few months.In the meantime you can do a gentle massage of the area by stroking from the armpits and down your side(in one direction).Hope this helps.

                                                       Tonya xx

The best advice that was given to me prior to and during chemo was -Go with the flow.  If you are feeling low - STOP and do nothing.  If you feel OKAY then do and eat what you feel like.  Good luck with the chemo.  I too was terrified as I did not know how my body would react but I got through it - will never do it again!!!  (Unless my family begs me to)  The "thing" that got me through was the knowledge that many others had gone before me and had survived the experience.  You will too - just be very kind to yourself and make sure others know how you feel.  Chemo is a time that you have to be "high maintenance" and "selfish - only thinking of yourself".  Everyone who has chemo is BRAVE, BRAVE.  I wish you all the best and as the others have stated - this site will be a godsend to you. XLeonie

The best advice that was given to me prior to and during chemo was -Go with the flow.  If you are feeling low - STOP and do nothing.  If you feel OKAY then do and eat what you feel like.  Good luck with the chemo.  I too was terrified as I did not know how my body would react but I got through it - will never do it again!!!  (Unless my family begs me to)  The "thing" that got me through was the knowledge that many others had gone before me and had survived the experience.  You will too - just be very kind to yourself and make sure others know how you feel.  Chemo is a time that you have to be "high maintenance" and "selfish - only thinking of yourself".  Everyone who has chemo is BRAVE, BRAVE.  I wish you all the best and as the others have stated - this site will be a godsend to you. XLeonie

It's not uncommon to get those fluid collections.When I had my mastectomy last year I got a fluid buildup under the chest scar.I had to have it syringed off twice a week for 5 weeks- what a pain. Yes that chemo unit can look quite daunting.When I sat in my chair and looked around at everyone,they all looked so docile with their beanies on and arm held out. I wanted to do a runner then and there.The nurse took a few go's to get the cannula in and I was so anxious that they had to give me a "calm you down pill".Ask for something beforehand if you are feeling abit that way- no medals are handed out in that place for bravery! This is a terrific site for information and support so jump on here any time -lots of lovely ladies to chat with.It makes this bc journey less scary and you don't feel so alone.

                                    Tonya xx