Hi Meldarbs
I am so Sorry to see you join the club that no-one every thought they'd be joining 🙁. xx
You've found the right spot here tho, for support & info from those who've 'been there, done that'! So hopefully we'll be able to help smooth the way for you from here on.
With all your appointments in coming weeks, specially after your surgery, consider recording your sessions on your phone, so you can go over it again later, as it can be difficult to remember everything that is discussed. And also, take a trusted friend or family member with you both for support and an extra set of ears.
Mine was ILC (Invasive Lobular Cancer) - I was lucky to only have the one lumpectomy, rads & tablets .... and have recently finished the tabs after 7 years!
Are you planning on having reconstructive surgery or will you remain 'flat'?We have private groups for both those having reconstruction or remaining flat - so feel free to join them, if you'd like to ask specific questions xx I believe, that if NOT having reconstruction, recovery would normally be quicker & easier - but it is best to ask those who've had it done. 😉
You may be helped with a 'u shaped' cushion that supports your arms, post surgery. I had a small long flat cushion that I used for my one arm .... as it really didn't like lying flat on the bed for ages! Sometimes, the Breast Care Nurse can organised them for you, as you'd probably need 2!
Have you been assigned a Breast Care Nurse yet? Put your Postcode in here & you'll be shown those that are available, closest to you. Give them a bell.
https://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/get-support/find-a-nurse/
Whack up ANY questions here - remember there are NO dumb questions!!! This diagnosis can really muck with your brain too - so if you feel sad, angry, distressed at any time .... ask your GP (or your treating team) for a referral to see a counsellor .... or give the team a call here on the Helpline on 1800 500 258 (Mon-Fri 9-5) for a confidential chat.
You could also listen to Charlotte Tottman's podcast (link below).
She is a BC specialist counsellor who was diagnosed herself, and she also had a double mastectomy, choosing to remain flat - so knows EXACTLY what you'll be going thru, both emotionally and physically! Her own reaction to her diagnosis was also quite different to what she 'thought' it might be, given that she'd been counseling women's reactions for some years before, so thought she 'new' what to expect! She is VERY easy to listen to, too xx
http://www.drcharlottetottman.com.au/my-podcast.html.
Raelene Boyle's video is also well worth watching - what a star!
https://www.bcna.org.au/resource-hub/podcasts/upfront-about-breast-cancer/upfront-about-breast-cancer/episode-21-raelene-boyle-on-pulling-herself-out-of-the-darkness/
There is also HEAPS of info in the link below to help you navigate the blog, decide what to take to hospital with you and also some tools to evaluate your own physical and mental recovery thru your ongoing treatment! xx.
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussions/general-discussion/a-big-welcome-to-all-new-online-network-members-/222737
Take care & wishing you all the best xx
