Forum Discussion
Menopause
I apologize in advance for this post. Firstly, I was diagnosed with grade 3 invasive breast cancer (her2+. er+) in Nov 2013. Had lumpectomy, chemo, radiation, then ovaries out in Sept 14. Since then, my life is hell. I can't sleep, I sweat profusely ALL the time (every 15 mins or so I get the hot flushes), I don't want to leave the house, I don't want to talk to anyone, have no patience with anyone, I cry alot and in general just have this horrible feeling in my gut all the time. I feel that I can't talk to anyone, as they all think I'm fine, treatment is finished, what am I complaining about? In comparison to how I am feeling now, treatment was a breeze. I tell myself "pull yourself together, there are people out there in worse situations", but I just can't get out of this funk. A couple of friends have slowly been distancing themselves from me, I think maybe they're sick of hearing about it a year and a bit down the track.
Anyway, big apologies, I just need to get this stuff of my chest before I go completely insane. I don't expect any sympathy from anyone, just understanding.
16 Replies
Thanks JessicaV for your thoughts.
I'm currently seeking out a new oncologist due to communication problems with my current one.
One thing i have sorted out along the way is the discrepancy between the kind of care I'm looking for and the care oncologists offer. I'm looking for best possible outcomes and specific suggestions for actions I can take to support the surgery/chemo/radiotherapy/hormone regime and to reduce the likelihood of cancer re-occurence. I'm not sure anyone offers this kind of advice, though I'm finding lots of useful information from reputable online resources.
My oncologist seems to have a very narrow focus - how to administer and monitor the chemo and hormone therapy. Even in this narrow field she's shown that she can't explain some things in ways my husband and I can understand. Hence our interest in finding someone else.
So far, my side effects have been mild, but if I do get into conversations about side effects and possibly reducing treatment doses, I'll know from your advice to ask some very specific questions.
Yes, I'd be willing to take part in your research.
