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BILATERAL MASTECTOMY 2 YEARS ON
Two years, 2 weeks, 1 day since my operation, Still feeling "tight". Funny to sometimes have an itchy nipple, when they are not there! Glad I made the decision to have the "sick" breast removed, as well as the other one ... I lost 3.5kg instantly ... what an upside to a bad situation ... all my jackets and tops fit so much better now ?? and no more outlaying $200 for a new bra every six months. It hasn't always been easy ... just me and my devoted husband here in Tasmania, and all the rest of the family in Sydney. Have felt quite lonesome at times, but keep it to myself, as I don't want to make others feel bad. No visits from them either, not even my only child, my daughter. No, I am not bitter, life is too short for that, just sad and disappointed that people don't bother to ask "how are you?". Except for my beautiful 91 year old subsitute Mum (my Mum died in 2000). She lives in a yurt, in the middle of 300 acres in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney. I have known her and her daughter, a dear friend, since 1957. When my "Mum" asks me how I am, it is hard not to let the tears fall! Her daughter, whom I met in primary school, had breast cancer, and a single mastectomy in 1999 .. they understand. ????????
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?? Thank you, and I am sad for you that you have had times of sadness as well. My breast cancer diagnosis was a total shock. The after effects of my surgery still linger, sometimes badly. People assume that you are OK. Or don't want to know! My sister in Sydney, whom I adore and we are very close, speaking on the 'phone a number of times a week, doesn't ask how I am. Quite strange really. My daughter rings once or twice a month. A busy life, with 3 teenage sons, but there is always time to be kind and thoughtful isn't there. Stay happy and isn't it wonderful to have the BCNA family where we can talk and share our experiences and feelings. ??????
?? You are so nice. Lucky to have your daughter's support. Whilst I was in hospital, and my darling girl did fly down to stay near me for 4 days, she told me that her husband had told her that she must never drive along the highway and main roads leading to where we live (about 2 hours from Launceston), as the the road was too dangerous!!!!! No it's not. He is a doctor in Sydney, very controlling in a clever, subtle way. This was his way of making sure my girl hasn't visited. I say nothing, but it is difficult at times.
?? Thank you. Nice to know people care.
?? Thank you Julie. Chin is, and has always been, up. xo
Should read .....aren't right there.
Congratulations! 2 years!
Wow! I have just had my bi lateral mastectomy with expanders put in 24/6/16. and I am getting those phantom sensations now....the itchy nipple drives me nuts! Very bizarre! I was wondering if it goes away, but looks like it may not! Oh well, just another side effect that hangs around...I still have the numbness in my toes and fingers from my chemo!
I too lost an instant 4kgs after my mastectomy...my boobs weighed 2 kilos each! and yes its bittersweet....but i can honestly say I won;t miss my huge boobs and am looking forward to shopping at regular outlets for bras and like you, not spending $100 upwards each on a couple of bras every 3-6 months! and to my clothes not having to be taken in at the wist because I have to buy a larger size to get over my boobs!
It's funny how people react isn't it? None of my own family want to know about my cancer "I'll get over it" - mind you I didn't expect anything more from them I suppose we aren't close and they all ditched me after my Dad passed in 2013, I only told them as our Mum had breast cancer too....but none the less, it hurt that I got that reaction! I can't really say my own kids have been too supportive either....and I have found myself wondering, how it would be if it were "worse" as some people have so kindly (not) pointed out "it could be worse!" ....the things people say to you is astonishing! .....Thank goodness I have my husbands family
I found this disease can be very lonely at times, even when you ARE surrounded by loving people...you don't want to come across as a whinger, but some days you do need to just let it all out...and boy do I hate it when they are surprised you start crying or talking a hundred mile per hour to get it all out! that's partly why I keep a journal...it helps
I also think it's amazing that after each treatment finishes, they think you're OK now! Like now that I've had my mastectomy....little do they realise the pain, side effects, mental effects etc that come with it all.....some days I just say NO! I'm not OK!
While it's upsetting and hurtful at times, you have every reason to hold your head high....look at what you've been through, come through...be proud of YOU....YOU are awesome! and if it means you only have less than a handful of people on your cheer squad, then so be it.
Sending you a BIG hug....keep smiling
Xx
Congrats on passing the 2 yrs. Hooray ??
You sound sad. It must've been hurtful for you, even though you have no bitter feelings.
Times of heartache is when we need our loved ones more than ever.
I am so blessed. My daughter has flown home once a month this year and spent 11 days looking after me when I had my double mastectomy.
Your story has made me even more appreciative of what I have.
I wish I was there to hold your hand. X
I think when people are right there they have no idea how hard it all is. Life gets busy and as you are not complaining they just dont get it. Congratulations on being 2 years on. Kath x
Beekay just realised I meant to mention do you have an ENCORE program near you... it has really helped me with my tightness...http://www.ywcaencore.org.au/node/47
hi Beekay
I get itchy nipples like you had double mastectomy so no nipple to speak of.....
You are always welcome to post and chat online here. we understand.
diagnosed 2012.
