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CarolAnneS
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Joined 2 years ago
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Re: Second time around
arpie said: Sorry to hear of your recurrence, @CarolAnneS. xx Wishing you all the best for this round of surgery & treatment xx Don't forget to check out the PATS system over there, where you can get assistance with travel & fuel costs & accommodation when going back for checkups.xx (See document below.) Thanks, @arpie, for reaching out. I'm good with the PATS system over here. Just wish it were a bit higher in their reimbursements, but I think I'm eligible for free accommodation now - if there's space. Apparently it's in very high demand and can be hard to get into.4Views0likes0CommentsSecond time around
Well, it's been a long time between drinks - thirteen years to be precise - but I had the phone call today which has confirmed the suspicions. At the age of 44, I went through my first round of breast cancer in 2011. I was diagnosed then exactly the same as now - Grade 2, 23mm lobular breast cancer. Funny that, isn't it. I had a lumpectomy, six rounds of chemo and six weeks of radio. But, being lobular, I was told that it was likely to recur sometime in the future, and - here I am. In the future - 2024. I'm now 57. I don't know much else at this stage, except that I'll have to go to Perth soon (I live regionally, in the far north of WA) for follow-up scans and a talk with a surgeon. Anyways, it is what it is. Been there, survived, and I'm back to fight and survive another day. Happy to connect.456Views1like8Comments
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Connecting rural, regional & remote areas
We understand that living outside major cities can bring unique challenges when it comes to accessing care, support, and information. From long travel distances to limited local services, these experiences can feel isolating—but you're not alone. This is a space to connect with others who truly understand what it’s like to face breast cancer while living regionally or remotely. Share stories, ask questions, and support one another through the frustrations and the wins - this group is here for you.Invasive Lobular Cancer (ILC)
This group is for anyone diagnosed with invasive lobular breast cancer (ILC), which begins in the milk-producing lobules and accounts for around 10% of invasive breast cancers (US statistics). Connect with others, share experiences, and access peer support from people who understand the unique aspects of an ILC diagnosis.Flat Chat - no breast reconstruction
PRIVATE GROUP. This group is a safe space for those considering, actively choosing or not have had a choice to stay flat after a mastectomy. Whether personal decision or one shaped by circumstance, you're invited to connect and share your experience and images with others on a similar path. Information shared is based on personal experience and not intended as medical advice; always consult your healthcare team for guidance. ⚠️CONTENT WARNING⚠️Posts may include images of surgical outcomes, which some may find distressing. If you need support, please contact the BCNA Helpline—we’re here for you.Choosing breast reconstruction
PRIVATE GROUP. Choosing breast reconstruction after single or double mastectomy can feel overwhelming, and deeply personal. This group is here to connect you through others' stories and images. Please respect everyone’s privacy—do not copy or share content outside this space. Information is based on personal experience and is not medical advice; always consult your healthcare team for guidance. ⚠️CONTENT WARNING⚠️ Members may share photos of breast surgeries. These images or discussions may be distressing or triggering for some. If you need support, please contact the BCNA Helpline - we are here for you.Breast cancer without children
Whether by choice or circumstance, navigating breast cancer without children is a unique experience that can feel unsupported or isolating. This group offers a compassionate space to connect with others who understand, share experiences, and find strength in community also living breast cancer without children.