Reality dawns

hi there pink is the new black, I had 8 rounds of chemo over 4 months and two separate surgeries for mastectomy 6 months apart. I was working as a nurse and because of the nature of my job just could not afford to get crook while doing the chemo and because I was diagnosed in may last year it was peak flu season so I chose to stop work and have just started back in the past couple weeks. I finished chemo in October and yes it was tough but definitely doable, I too was very fatigued so no way I could work anyway. But it might be different for you but be kind to yourself and don't think you have to be superwoman this is a time in your life where you are allowed to be totally selfish. I was not used to being this way but soon learnt that this is how it has to be and got through it. Thinking of you. Margie :)

@Pinkisthenewblack I'm sorry you are here, but what a great supportive place to be!!! This wig was like my natural hair, all I had to do was get my hairdresser to cut it around my face. I wore it for about 8 months. I am in Melbourne but they have a website shinywaywigs.com.au it cost me around $300 it is synthetic but was amazing!! 

In term so chemo,I had a PLAN I am education support in an Autism Specific school, I planned on working right through unfortunately after about 6 weeks I had to stop working all together. It was hard going but can I say...truthfully...you just don't know until you begin how you are going to cope. You could well be able to manage, and the best thing is see how you go and alter your plans as you go. Im 49 and Ive always put work above everything...not anymore...I learnt to put me first..the best thing to come out of it was learning new things about myself and a real honest love and nurture for me which I'd never done before.

Hang in there, lots of wonderful ladies here and so supportive. One thing I know for certain is you will get through it. Hugs Melinda xo

If you want to be sure people see your responses just put an @ in front of their username. @Pinkisthenewblack

Yes, looks like you've worked it out perfectly Pinkisthenewblack!  It can be a challenge to figure out the secret workings of the forum but the ladies and BCNA co-ordinators are always happy to help if needed.

Thank you Hopes and Dreams, it feels like a really positive and supportive space. Still trying to figure out how replying to comments works so I hope you see this  :)

Thank you Amazonia, that's great info. Will check it out!

Hi @Pinkisthenewblack, I didn't need chemo so I can't help you with any of your questions. But as you have seen, there will always be women on this wonderful forum happy to share their own experiences and offer support.
I just wanted to welcome you and wish you all the best with your treatment.  Jane x

Hi pinkisthenewblack,
Everyone is different but I found losing my hair the worst part of it all.
Surgery doable, chemo was not flash but the hair loss I found devastating.
I almost visited a respected (and expensive) wig shop in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne but thought I'd check out eBay first and take a punt.
Found an amazing looking wig and sent off for it, believing that it might be too good to be true but was so surprised when it arrived to find that it is amazing style and quality. 
Feels like real hair and bounces and sits amazingly well.
I haven't worn it a lot - but when I really needed to look 'normal' it was invaluable.
I prefer a selection of beanies and hats from Wish.
My daughter and I had "fun", and made the exploring online for options a positive laughing experience. 
If interested the shop is -  buster10d - brand  = Kim's wigs 
it's Based in London but very little postage cost ($7) and only ($25 for the wig) and quick delivery.
Picture attached, hopefully. Best of luck :) Hope this helps.

Hi pinkisthenewblack (like the name!)  

I didn't have to have chemo for mine, but I do have a full-on mgt role - the usual 10-12 hour day thing, and did end up just taking time out for the last week or two of radio.  I just needed head space as much as the physical tiredness. That said I did have someone who could take over my role and I hovered on email from home constantly. 
Good luck with it all.  The job will still be there when you're ready,  give yourself time and space
Aine

AineG said:

Hi pinkisthenewblack (like the name!)  

I didn't have to have chemo for mine, but I do have a full-on mgt role - the usual 10-12 hour day thing, and did end up just taking time out for the last week or two of radio.  I just needed head space as much as the physical tiredness. That said I did have someone who could take over my role and I hovered on email from home constantly. 
Good luck with it all.  The job will still be there when you're ready,  give yourself time and space
Aine

Oh and I never felt comfortable in my wig but just got into hats and scarves and had sooooo many. I googled how to tie a head scarf and found a couple of ways to do it. I was amazed how good I looked in hats and scarves actually.