I am a survivor of nine years yesterday since diagnosis, I had a early cancer detection grade three so i had a lumpectomy with lymph nodes removed and they were clear then had chemo because i was young and radiation. I must admit I was scared when given the news at the breast screen clinic, it was my routine mammagram when my cancer was found, i had no palpable lump. I decided from then on to be positive and all would be alright. I had lots and lots of positive people around me who gave my great support. My hubbies family were wonderful every day after diagnoses and before my op (two weeks) I would have family with me while me husband was at work. My hubby had time off when I came home after my op, which was a huge help to me. I went through radiation doing really well, after two weeks of being tired from driving, I got used to the normal every day routine. I found all the staff so helpful from diagnosis to surgery to treatment. Ask questions about anything you need to know. I found my diary was the best place to write down questions to ask the Surgeon or radiologist. That way you don't forget your question. Also accept help from family or friends if they offer to cook a meal for you as this will be a big help for those days that you might feel too tired to cook etc. I never liked asking for help but friends would just turn up with wonderful home made dishes or baking that they had done for us. Be positive and treat yourself to time out for reading and resting as much as you can through radium. Thinking of you as you go through your journey. Hugs to you xx Kerry
I'm a survivor of 5 years since my diagnoses, my biggest 'stress less advice' is, give yourself permission to have down time. I reorganised my life to have 1 week off after my chemo, and then got back into routine for the next two weeks before the next cycle.
It showed my family that life could keep going on and helped my teenage children cope better as they saw their mum keep going.
It is a "journey" make sure you understand everything, ask lots of questions and find a doctor/surgeon that you can build a relationship with because there's a lot of medical appointments.
Take up any offers that friends and family make.
Good luck, look after yourself, emotionally and physically, no one has your best interests at heart as much as yourself :-)
well if it is any consolation, for me the worst bit was the beginning; it is an upsetting diagnosis and until treatment plan is worked it does feel confronting and scary; it does get better and focus on the positives helps--i had great surgeon and recovery was fine--now you wouldnt be able to tell even in the nude; i had radiation and now on tomaxafin so there is a range of treatment possiblities as well--as well as helpful stats that might make you feel better too..good luck
