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GorgyS
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Joined 2 years ago
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Re: Frustrated by Perfect Survirors
Hi Kyra None of us are truly OK. We are all scared of recurrence or we are going through the long-lasting side effects of the treatment. These positive attitudes we try to hold onto are part of survivorship. I was diagnosed in 2023, and that was the day I knew my life would never be the same. We are all different. I am grateful to the women who shared their journeys and offered support to me. I am not a perfect survivor, because the perfect survivor does not exist. But with a positive attitude and by looking after ourselves, we keep going — surviving, for however long we can. In the meantime, connecting with other women who have had similar experiences can help. I also do not want to be judged for looking after myself, laughing, and staying active. I have gone through a lot, and I am still going through a lot. I am selective. I do not engage with every woman who has been through the breast‑cancer journey, because I do not always relate to their attitudes or philosophies. I understand how you feel. You need to choose who you spend time with and who you rely on for support. If you cannot, ignorance might help. I am lucky to have joined a local cancer support group for women. We organise events, exercise sessions, networking activities, and support each other. We rarely talk about our cancers unless someone needs guidance or advice. BCNA has helped me a lot, especially through the ladies who share their good and bad stories. And we need more stories to be shared. Take care❤️Re: Do you wear a sleeve or glove or both?
My case is the same. I developed lymphoedema a few months after my lumpectomy, and radiation contributed to it even more. I started with sleeves prescribed by my lymphoedema therapist. I have a sleeve and a glove, as well as the one‑piece style that covers part of my hand. I also purchased a night compression sleeve. I’m not very good with massage, so I bought a compression pump, which I like the most. I still have swelling, but I’ve never had redness since using the pump. I don’t wear the sleeves often. I’ve noticed that the best treatment for my arm is lifting it and resting it. I still would suggest sleeves, but they should be prescribed by professionals.Re: Neuropathy- need some moral support
Hi Anna I can not share any good news, as I feel the same as you. Some days are good, some days are bad. What really helps me is taking off my shoes or house slippers and resting. It also helps me when I ignore it and keep myself preoccupied with some 'distractions' such as swimming or light housework or painting. However, for me it is important to rest between activities. I developed neuropathy after my treatment is finished (chemo and radiation). As I am on hormone blockers, Letrozole and additional medication to complement hormone blockers called Abemaciclib, I believe that all of this together contributed to the development neuropathy in my feet. I do not have neuropathy in my hands, otherwise I would be breaking anything I hold. I also developed lymphoedema so there are a few issues I have been dealing with. But to go through all of this, I have to keep positive. I always report this to my oncologist who wanted to put me on some medication for neuropathy that I refused as I am already taking so many meds. I hope there will be some more positive responses to your question.Re: Abemaciclib Verezenio side effects
I started abemaciclib in November 2024 at a dose of 150 mg once per day. I paused treatment for three months until my liver recovered. I am now back on 50 mg twice per day. My oncologist told me that letrozole, which I have been taking since August 2024, is the main medication for my treatment.Re: Abemaciclib Verezenio side effects
hi Katie46 They haven't ruled it out yet. In two weeks, I will have another blood test and will see. I will share it with the network when I find out. However, I feel so good since stopped the Abemaciclib that I am seriously thinking not to continue regardless of the blood test result.Re: Abemaciclib Verezenio side effects
Hi Shirley0411 I have been on Letrozole since August 2024 and Abemaciclib (150 mg) since November 2024. I thought I was managing the side effects well, but after having to stop Abemaciclib due to elevated liver enzymes, I’ve noticed a significant improvement. I have more energy and feel much better. It has been almost two months since I went on a break from Abemaciclib. I have another blood test coming up and will be seeing my oncologist in two weeks.Re: Surgeon or oncologist first?
My treatment path was a lumpectomy followed by further surgery to achieve clear margins. After the surgery, I saw a medical oncologist who prescribed chemotherapy, and a radiation oncologist for radiation therapy. The breast surgeon was the one who decided whether further surgery was needed. And you're right—they work together and consult with each other as a multidisciplinary team. I was well guided through the whole treatment and didn’t worry much because I trusted the medical team and their expertise. They had experience in treating breast cancer, but for me, everything was so new and unknown. Take care
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Work and breast cancer
PUBLIC GROUP - This is a space to connect around the challenges and questions that come with managing work and breast cancer. Whether you're navigating time off, returning to work, dealing with workplace conversations, or exploring your rights and options, you're welcome here. This group is open to the public (not just members of our online network) to help broaden access to important information, practical advice, and peer support.Carers corner
Whether you're caring for a partner, parent, child, or family member, this group offers a safe and understanding place to connect with others in similar roles. Share your experiences, talk through the personal challenges of being a carer, and find support from a community that truly understands the emotional and practical realities of caregiving for a loved one with breast cancer.
