Member: JulieVT11 | BCNA Online Network

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Re: Airport X-ray machines and a prosthesis
I had a horrible experience at the Brisbane domestic airport and I wasn’t even flying. Our daughter was flying in (had just got engaged) and we were picking her up so very excited. Went through security to get to the gate and then all turned to shite. My prothesis was picked up on the body scan so the security lady in her loudest voice yelled “woman here with something in her bra”. Several staff came over and I explained what it was but they weren’t happy with that so was taken into an office with 4 staff to be felt down. They then asked me to remove my shirt and had to actually show them my bra. All happy then I went back out and had to go through the body scanner again and same staff person yelled out again that she still has something there, I started crying, my husband wasn’t allowed to come near me and they finally said I could go. Have never felt so humiliated and violated in my life. Have flown a few times since with no drama at all but have serious anxiety now before travelling.
3 years ago Place General
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Re: Gluten free bread recipe
@Ramesis I am coeliac so have tried nearly every brand of gluten free bread. My favourite is Abbots as I think it tastes similar to normal bread. The Woolworths home brand is also pretty good. I just buy a loaf and put straight in the freezer that way it’s a bit fresher to use for a sandwich occasionally.
5 years ago Place Healthy eating
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Re: Reconstruction Costs
@Blister I am also still to have reconstruction after single MX. I am in Brisbane also and was quoted $12-$15;000 also going private - I’m keen to have a DIEP recon done. There is no way I have that sort of cash so spoke to my breast surgeon - she suggested Mater Hospital is the best if you go public and Dr Gerard Bayley at Greenslopes Hospital has a gap fee of approx $3500 which is private. I haven’t looked into either option as yet but will do so in the New Year. in regard to the prothesis as the ladies above have suggested there are quite a few options, I had a proper fitting done about 5 weeks post op and got a lightweight one as well as the proper silicone one. I much prefer the lighter version especially in the hot humid weather haha. Spirit of Life Boutique in Clayfield do proper fittings and sell a good wide range of prothesis, bras, swimmers etc and both ladies have had BC so are very caring and thoughtful, I had a full on breakdown at my first visit and they were wonderful - the whole fake boob thing became a bit overwhelmingly real.
5 years ago Place General discussions
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Re: Wishing @JulieVTII a very happy birthday for today, 27th November xx
thank you ladies, 😍
5 years ago Place General discussions
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Re: DCIS treatments
I am almost 2 years from my single mastectomy for DCIS and small tumour. I actually had the MRI (over $720) done before surgery as surgeon was a bit concerned she would have to take too much breast to get clear margins. The scan showed that it was bigger than first thought so I opted for mastectomy and it was the best choice in the end and definitely not overkill. I had the single node removal for biopsy and it feels a bit weird sometimes but no pain or long term issues. If there was a bonus to my mastectomy it meant no radiation and as it was low grade I didn’t need chemo either. My biggest regret was not getting implant or recon done at the time so my only advice would be to really explore all your options and what YOU want. My surgeon sort of talked my out of it at the time claiming it was close to Christmas etc and best just to get the breast removed and worry about recon later. Good luck with your scan results xx
5 years ago Place General
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Re: Mattress selection
@"Annie C" thanks - we are actually replacing a Makin Mattress that is approx 16 years old. I would prefer to just have this again but hubby is keen to try the new style ones. I certainly agree being able to turn it each way is what has made it last so long.
5 years ago Place General discussions
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Re: Tamoxifen Can someone help?
@Midge33 sorry also meant to say I also had trouble getting my normal brand a few months back and ended up going round the small suburban chemists and managed to get the script filled.
5 years ago Place Hormone blocking therapy
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Re: Tamoxifen Can someone help?
@Midge33 I live in Chermside Brisbane and have been able to get it last couple of times from Direct Chemist Outlet 🙂
5 years ago Place Hormone blocking therapy
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Mattress selection
Morning All this is a very random question but I’m looking at buying a new mattress and have been looking at all the new memory foam style in particular Sleeping Duck. As I have constant hot flushes/night sweats was wondering whether they will retain the heat and just make it worse for sleeping. I currently have the normal old style spring sort and don’t have that issue. Thanks in advance for my tips🙂
5 years ago Place General discussions
hot-flushes
sleep
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Re: Does Tamoxifen get easier?
@Mags44 I don’t think it gets easier but I think you have to just learn to live with the side effects and find the best way to manage them. I have been on tamoxifen now for about 20 months and it has been hard work coping mentally and physically. The hot flushes are so draining especially now heading into summer, I now have a packet of wet wipes, a small hand towel and little fan that go with me everywhere. I choose cotton clothing and sleepwear whenever I can as well. Another tip was to get good regular exercise - think it helps my mind more than body. My oncologist has started me on a low does anti-depressant to see if that helps but all it has done is help me sleep better which is a bonus. I work in an office and have managed the flushes ok - you just have to take control of the air con haha, the guys tend to disappear when you get hot and flustered and the women get you a water and have sympathy. I thought 5 years was just going to be hell but I’m nearly 2 down so can’t complain. Good luck with your return to work and staying well🙂
6 years ago Place Side effects
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Let's talk: vaginas, menopause & me
PRIVATE GROUP. This group is a safe, supportive space to talk about sexual health and emotional wellbeing during and after breast cancer. We discuss topics like menopause, vaginal dryness, pain during sex, UTIs, and changes in libido, and share ideas and products that may help. Whether you're navigating intimacy with a partner or reconnecting with yourself, you're not alone here. This is a place for open, respectful conversations and shared understanding.
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.

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JulieVT11

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Let's talk: vaginas, menopause & me

Choosing breast reconstruction