Sorry to see you joining us here, boysmum , but you've come to the right place for support & 'lived' experiences. xx
Are you having reconstruction? If 'yes', you could join the Choosing Breast Reconstruction, Here:
Group: Choosing breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network
If not having reconstruction, ask your surgeon about an 'aesthetic closure' for the tidiest result - and you could also join the Flatchat group, here:
Group: Flat Chat - no breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network
Both are PRIVATE groups and you can ask ANYTHING in complete privacy - NO-ONE else can read those posts, unless they are a member! Both groups would have info that may assist you at some time or other as you go thru your surgery & ongoing treatment xx
It can be a very emotional time too, before, during and after surgery & treatment ..... so if you feel yourself getting sad, angry or concerned about how things are going - have a listen to Charlotte Tottman's podcast on her own Breast Cancer story. She is a specialist Breast Cancer Psychologist who had a double mastectomy about 5 years ago. She was quite surprised at just 'how much' it affected her both mentally and physically, as she'd been helping ladies for decades .... and then experienced it all herself! The podcasts are very easy to listen to & most members find them very helpful. There are 2 seasons - start off with the first one here (What You don't know until you do Welcome):
https://soundcloud.com/bcna
You can also call our Helpline here for a confidential one on one chat:
1800 500 258
Also, check out this post, that has a wealth of information in it - tips on what to take to hospital (front opening pyjamas, for example! And don't forget the charging cords for you phone/tablet if you take one with you! )
Cooking & freezing your favourite meals over the next 2 weeks, will definitely make it easier for you when you get home & may not feel like cooking!
A big welcome to all New Online Network Members ..... | BCNA Online Network
Good/Bad things .... almost everyone has a 'bad day' sooner or later where 'the wheels fall off', no matter how small the reason - it is totally NORMAL xx .... Mine was losing a beautiful 'guardian angel' pendant whilst I was having radiation (a loved friend had given it to me .... and it just broke me. I couldn't stop crying.) Just know that there MAY be bad days .... but with good family & friend support (as well as BCNA - as you can raise ANY issue without fear of rejection xx. As we've ALL BEEN THERE!)
Another 'thing' I discovered was that a lot of people don't know how to handle the news that you're not well & will need surgery & ongoing treatment - they don't know WHAT to say - so they say NOTHING! (And sadly, that hurts you even MORE!)
Also - it may surprise you 'who' steps up to the plate and supports you the most - quite often, it is not the person you think it will be!
Just Be open minded and try not to take it personally ... as it DOES hurt xx
Keep a little diary going re your mental health & physical concerns .... the ups & downs, so that when you see your medical team, you can raise the issues, if they are still a concern for you. Better still, you should be teamed up with a Breast Care Nurse (usually after your surgery) - and they will become your FIRST port of call for accurate information on any of your concerns.
Try & keep your sense of humour going - as you'll need it! We have a 'Funnies' page and a 'Wise Words' thread for some laughs and/or inspiration
Wise words .... | BCNA Online Network .... feel free to add any that you love! xx
After my surgery, I found that a small 'long' cushion was essential to rest my arm on, as it didn't like being 'flat on the bed' immediately after surgery. (8 years later, I use it under my head when I read in bed!)
Wishing you all the best as you approach your surgery - take care xx
