Surgery

Thank you so much Michelle, This has helped me a lot. Its nice to talk to you about it. I am keeping myself busy to try and take my mind off it all. The only time I have been in hospital is when I had our kids 35 years ago, so it is quite daunting. I guess like everyone else going through the same thing, it is the mere thought of having my boobs removed seems overwhelming. Mind you, they are very tiny and one probably wouldn't notice them gone, its not like it's a leg or an arm. haha. My sense of humour is really kicking in. When I asked the surgeon if this means I don't have to have a mammagram again for the rest of my life, he was quietly amused. A girl has to do what a girl has to do. Thanks so much for your kindness Michelle. It has helped me heaps. Hugs to you. xxxx

You don't need special pillows - I just asked the nurse for 2 - in fact I think she suggested it. Just not too bulky - regular pillows are fine.

Yes, I had chemo for 12 weeks.  Be sure to take all the medications for before-&-after that they give you (making a chart and ticking them off helps), because it is easier to prevent side effects than it is to cure them.  I was lucky and coped very well.  I did find that green tea with slices of fresh ginger in it really helped - ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and also good for nausea - and it was the best tip I had from anyone during chemo.  I also had a portacath inserted for easy access.

Like you, I was always very fit and healthy - walks on the beach, cardio classes, yoga - and my cancer was also found between mammograms/ultrasounds every 2 years. Sometimes they call them "interval cancers".  Mine was Triple Negative, so chemo/radiation were the treatments as drugs don't work for tnbc, followed by a hysterectomy.

I was in hospital less than 4 days - surgery Monday evening, home Friday morning. (With 1 drain in, which was removed the next afternoon.)  I did not have reconstruction - I just wanted to heal asap. I am deciding now if I want it or not.

There is light at the end of the tunnel.  18 months later I feel fit and healthy again.  Just take things one day at a time and let the roller coaster take its course. Once you start, it all flows very quickly.  Get a big file ready, and keep all your appointments/treatments/financial records from Day 1, as they will follow thick and fast.

If I can help at all just message me.  Big hug.  Michelle xx

Thank you so much Michelle. It's nice to communicate with you as you have been through it.

Can you buy special pillows somewhere? Did you have chemo? Not sure I want reconstruction, dont want another op. How long were you in hospital? I know everyone is different. This was not exactly in my life plan. Instead of thinking "why me" I am thinking "why not me".

I have had 68 years totally illness free. Have never been on medication. How lucky am I?

I am telling myself that this will be a walk in the park. (actually to be more accurate "a walk along the beach")

Hugs Michelle and thank you so much

I am also on the Gold Coast, and had bilateral surgery last year at Pindara. Waiting is the worst part of this journey, so just get through the next 4 days keeping as busy as you can.  The surgery is surprisingly pain free, and after the first 24-48 hours I found panadol was enough, but you will probably start on Endone when you wake up.  Don't forget front-opening pjs so the nurses can access your dressings easily (I only had a strip of tape - amazing!)  A small pillow tucked under each arm will also help with comfort and sleeping on your back, as you won't try to roll over.

Two of the girls on this site have your surgeon also - TinaW, and Casjsa - so you could message them for information.

All the very best with your surgery.  Sending you a big hug.  Michelle xxx