So here it begins....
And so it begins, I've started a journey I never thought I would and am completely unprepared.
Just over a week ago I attended the breast clinic expecting for them to confirm I have a cyst that I c...
Forum Discussion
Hi Tanya
So sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I too am a mother of two young children (5 and 3) and was working full time when I was diagnosed in January.
I can only speak of my personal experiences - everyone has a different one, even on the same course of treatment.
I have just finished four and a half months of chemo (FEC/D) and there was no way I personally could have worked during that time. Apart from other symptoms, my brain just wasn't (isn't) working the way it normally would and as a high school teacher that wouldn't have worked. Not fair on the students. Plus many speak of flexible working arrangements but again as a teacher that would not have worked.
BUT many women on here have worked through chemo. If your job is one where flexible working arrangements can be made then that's a possibility. The week of chemo for me was usually a write-off but I gradually improved after that during week 2 and nearly normal by week 3. Many women have also had minimal side effects during chemo and have worked right through with no issues. Some have continued to work for their own sanity - others have taken a break for their own sanity. That probably doesn't help you at all but it's true that everyone is different.
In terms of exercise - I have learnt through this forum that many women continue to exercise right through chemo - gym, weights, even running marathons! Some cannot. I am one of the cannot ones. My exercise has been limited to brief walks on days when I feel up to it.
My children were also my greatest concern but they have been amazing. I was honest with them straight up, told them what was going to happen with my treatment etc. Even overheard my daughter explaining it to one of her prep buddies. They know that sometimes mummy can play with them, some days she needs to stay in bed and rest. They understand more than we think.
You will be amazed at the inner strength you find. People keep telling me I seem to be coping amazingly well but I tell you what, if one more person tells me how strong I am, I think I'm going to thump them! Because, you know, it's ok not to be.
I hope you have a good support network around you. I'm not sure where you are located but if you would like to touch base with another mummy, feel free to pm me. We are all here to support one another.
x-Sherril