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rene2476's avatar
rene2476
Member
10 years ago

Step 1 Done!

Step 1 is done.  On Thurdsay, exactly two weeks after my first mammogram And biopsy I had my Wide Local Excision and sentinel node removed.  I was concerned about the four needle injection and scans that had to be done the day prior but if you thought the core biopsy was painful this is much much better.  Just like having a needle really, the last one was a tad painful but they gave me a heat pack straight away and that stopped any further pain. The tests were just that, lie down while the machine did its thing.

 I have had three hernia related operations over the last 7 years so I new what was involved with anesthetic and I don't cope well (a vomit bucket is usually my best friend) thankfully I had a great anesthetist and he knew all this and I didnt have any vomiting at all,  a bit of nausea a few hours after I came out of recovery but that was it.  It's now two days after surgery and my wounds are a little tender, mainly the armpit one.  

Now the waiting begins...results should be back next Thursday or Friday and a treatment plan will be decided on from there.  I feel like I could go back to work but it has been suggested by the surgeon I have a week off.  What are your thoughts? I work in admin so will just be sitting at a desk...am thinking that would be better than sitting at home alone imagining the worst! xx

3 Replies

  • Kazzi's avatar
    Kazzi
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Rene,

    Take some time out, and be kind to yourself. I found I was on a bit of a postop high, until it was the waiting for the results and coping with Drs waiting rooms. etc.  Personally I've also found it difficult coping with the whole cancer diagnosis thing. 

    I know what you mean about keeping busy, distracting your mind.  After a rest, recovery with DVDs and walks, see if you can negotiate with your employer flexible hours or work from home (if that's possible).  As a primary teacher, I didn't have that option and still find the concept of facing my class with no boob, no hair and no immunity too confronting. It all takes time to recover. 

    All the best with the pathology results and treatment plan. The early days are the hardest.

    Karen xx

  • Anonymous's avatar
    Anonymous
    Not applicable
    10 years ago

    Just give yourself some time to recover, and use up your sick leave and annual leave. Also, you could access some sickness benefits through your superannuation. Have a good chat to your employer and see if you can negotiate a flexible workplace. I'm sure that they will be supportive and have some suggestions for you. Keeping in contact with your workplace is a healthy thing to do, just be realistic along the way, and take good care of you. Sending you a big cuddle, Trace ??????

  • adean's avatar
    adean
    Member
    10 years ago

    Be kind to yourself take some time out. I always regretted I didn't take enough time of, and besides it might be good to see what treatment you will have. I don't think we realise internally and emotionally what bc actualy does to us. You deserve a break put the feet up watch DVDs and read and enjoy life. Adean x