Starting the Journey
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in late December and unable to see a specialist until mid January. On Feb 18th I had a double masectomy as had cancer both sides and 2 different types and were both stage 2. At the time of the masectomy I opted for expanders for reconstruction which I have struggled with. A week after the initial operation had to have further surgery as cancer had spread to one of the lymph nodes taken out in the sentinel biopsy so an axillary clearance was done plus more breast tissue taken as there had not been enough clearance. In total I had 16 days in hospital, 2 operations and 5 drains. As sad and sorry I was feeling for myself I was so glad to get home (a 4 hour drive away from hospital). My surgeon while I was in hospital was fantastic but failed at the post operative check dismally and left me in tears and wondering what I should now do. I had several questions to ask on this visit and upon going in the consulting room was asked to hop up on the table for an examination. Half way through this the surgeons mobile phoned and the call taken whilst indicating for me to get dressed. I hadn't even done up my buttons and the surgeon was ushering my husband out of the room with me running behind. I had NO opportunities to ask the questions I had prepared and even had to ask 2 rather personal questions in the waiting room in front of over 20 people just to get an answer which was mortifying but I needed answers. This left me in tears and I cried most of the way home. How should I approach this? Any advice would be appreciated!! I am now awaiting to know about my follow up chemo which incidently the surgeon had forgotten to arrange 2 weeks prior!!!! I am so stressed.