Pending mystectomy

Hi Linda

It is exactly a year ago today that I had my mastectomy and auxiliary node clearance.  My tumour was also quite large with two nodes infected (if I am understanding the information correctly).  My timescale as regards diagnosis to surgery was much the same as yours.  I spent two nights in hospital although could have left after the first night.  I too had little pain but found I was quite anxious about the drains.  I had nurses calling for about a week or ten days to check and change drains when required.  I was so anxious a week after surgery that I drove to the other side of the city to see my surgeon for reassurance!!!!  If I was to go through that again I wouldn't be as anxious however it was all an unknown back then.  I had six cycles of chemo followed by five weeks of radiotherapy.  I tolerated it all very well and feel great now.  When asked how I feel and respond that I am feeling great I always counter that by saying that I was also feeling great just prior to my diagnosis.  I totally understand your concern in relation to your cousin but they say everyone's cancer is different and when I am feeling in any way negative I remind myself that 89% of women are still alive at least 5 years after diagnosis and those are pretty good odds!  The very best of luck with your operation next week.  I am confident you will recover quickly and its great that you have your cousin as support as someone who has gone through the same experience.

Take care and be kind to yourself.

Eileen