Mez_BCNA
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Re: Length of treatment 1 or 3 wks?
Hi Blackcat1 thankyou for your post -jumping in while we wait for others to share their experience. If you are referring to the shorter 'Hyperfractionated radiotherapy' - you may find our article About radiotherapy treatmenthelpful in outlining the differences. You are welcome to call our Helpline 1800 500 258 if you need further information or support. All the best in the coming weeks.Re: D4 post lumpectomy itching
Applevic Thankyou for starting the conversation. While we wait for others to share their own lived experience, we thought you may find the below resources useful that relates to 'Lumpectomy Recovery': Lumpectomy - breast-conserving surgery You also mentioned preparing for radiotherapy, for this reason you may find the webcast below worthwhile: About radiotherapy treatment if you have ongoing or persistent discomfort that is worsening, please reach out to your treating team. Please feel free to contact BCNA's Helpline 1800 500 258 if we can assist further.Re: Feeling overwhelmed
annabody67 - You may like to also check out Cancer Support Services flyer outlines a range of free, community‑based support groups and activities available for people affected by cancer across the Mornington Peninsula. It highlights opportunities to connect with others, learn from local health professionals, and participate in supportive wellbeing activities, including walking groups and men’s and women’s cancer support groups. The services are open to people at any stage of diagnosis or treatment, as well as family members and carers, and are designed to foster connection, information‑sharing and emotional support in a welcoming environment.🩺LeaN On Program: reducing the risk of lymphoedema
LeaN On - a research initiative led by Professor Bogda Koczwara and developed by Flinders University in partnership with BCNA, was developed in response to a long‑standing gap in survivorship care. Lymphoedema is a chronic condition affecting the arm or hand that can develop weeks, months or even years after breast cancer treatment, yet many people report receiving little guidance about early warning signs, risk reduction or when to seek support. LeaN On is an evidence‑based digital platform designed to support people who are living with, or concerned about, lymphoedema after breast cancer. The platform guides users through a simple 12‑step online journey, with each step offering small, manageable and practical information to help people: understand what lymphoedema is recognise early signs and symptoms take actions now to reduce risk know when and how to seek professional support The platform is currently being trialed through a research study, evaluating how lymphoedema support can be delivered online, including both self‑directed and nurse‑supported options. Its online design allows people to access guidance regardless of where they live, including in regional and rural areas where access to specialist care can be limited. Consumer perspectives have been embedded throughout the project. Participants for co‑design activities were recruited through the Review and Survey Group, and BCNA supported the research by appointing a trained Consumer Representative to the project team. This ensured lived experience informed both the development of the platform and the research approach. Both the platform and the study underpinning its development have now been published, and people affected by breast cancer are invited to trial LeaN On by contacting info@mylean.online Learn more about the LeaN On project: BCNA overview article Flinders University article and trial information Published studyRe: Giredestrant Reduces Recurrence Risk More Than Tamoxifen, Aromatase Inhibitors - lidERA Trial
Thanks for sharing arpie - really interesting and encouraging research. It’s great to see consistent findings across studies in other countries, as that broader evidence can really help influence future treatment guidelines.👋 Quick reminder for anyone interested in lymphoedema information and upcoming events
There’s a really helpful discussion thread on the Online Network focused on lymphoedema information and events. The thread is regularly updated with upcoming events by our Online Network members - with a special shout‑out to Kristen for consistently sharing and keeping the information current 👏💛 If you haven’t already, take a moment to check it out and join the conversation here: 👉 Lymphoedema Information & Events | BCNA Online Network Feel free to share your experiences, ask questions, or add any events or resources you know about.Re: Just need to talk to someone
Thankyou for posting your discussion CrazyDogLady67 – while we wait for other people to share their experience and offer their insights. We wanted to assure you that it makes a lot of sense that you’re feeling confused, panicked, and overwhelmed right now. Many people tell us that in the early days after a breast cancer diagnosis it can feel like everything is happening at once, with too much information and not enough time to take it in. There is nothing “slow” about you, this is a very normal response to a life‑changing situation and it’s okay that things don’t feel clear yet. You’re not expected to understand everything all at once. For most people, clarity comes gradually and plans start to form. If you’ve been assigned a breast care nurse at the hospital, they can be a really important person to talk things through with helping explain what’s happening, answering questions, and being a steady point of support. If you haven’t yet been linked in with a breast care nurse, you may find the Find a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Near You helpful in locating a nurse near you who can provide free, ongoing support. We (BCNA) also has resources designed to support people who are newly diagnosed. Many people find it reassuring to work through information at their own pace: My Journey – a trusted, step‑by‑step resource that provides clear information tailored to where you’re at, from diagnosis onwards Getting through the first few weeks (article) You may like to watch BCNA’s Webcast: Just diagnosed - what’s next? BCNA's Helpline (1800 500 258) – to talk things through with someone who understands, when things feel like too much and can offer further resources to support you Support is available and know that you are not alone.🏷️How to 'Tag' other members on BCNA’s Online Network
One great way to engage with others is by tagging them in your posts or comments. Tagging helps notify someone that you’re talking to them or mentioning them in a conversation. What does “Tagging” mean? Tagging is when you mention another member by name in a post or comment using the @ symbol. It creates a clickable link to their profile and sends them a notification so they can see your message. How to tag someone Just follow these steps: Type the @ symbol in your post or comment. Start typing the person’s username (e.g. @JaneSmith). A list of matching names will appear - click the correct one. The name will turn into a link once posted. Example: Tips for Tagging You can tag more than one person in a post. Make sure you spell the username correctly. We hope the above instruction is helpful in making your conversations more personalised. If you need further support or guidance navigating the Online Network, please contact our Helpline 1800 500 258.Re: Molecular Profiling? Chemo?
Thankyou for starting the conversation Teta and sorry that you have to make these types of decisions at all - it must be difficult. While we wait for others to respond with their own experience, you may also like to read out website page https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/screening-and-diagnosis/family-history-and-genetics/genomic-testing-tumour-profilingRe: Hot Flushes
Hi misglen - Thankyou for starting the conversation. While we wait for others to respond, we thought you may also be interested in the chat found here in relation to Veozah Veoza for hot flushes | BCNA Online Network and also our website news item Two new treatments recommended for people with breast cancer
Groups
Living with metastatic breast cancer
This is group for people living with metastatic breast cancer (also called stage 4, secondary or advanced breast cancer). This is a safe, understanding space to connect with others who truly get what it’s like to hear the words that you are living with metastatic breast cancer. Together, we offer each other strength, compassion, hope encouragement and a place to talk openly—whatever you're facing.LGBTIQ+ & breast cancer
We recognise that the breast cancer experience can be uniquely complex for LGBTIQ+ individuals. From navigating healthcare systems that may not always feel inclusive, to dealing with assumptions about gender, bodies, relationships, and identity—this group exists to honour and support those experiences in a safe, affirming environment.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.Breast cancer awareness
PUBLIC GROUP - This group is for anyone passionate about raising awareness of breast cancer, whether you're here to learn, support a loved one, share resources, or help spread the word. Together, we explore ways to increase understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage early conversations about breast health. You don’t need to have a diagnosis to be part of this space—just a willingness to connect, listen, and contribute to a more informed and compassionate community. 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.
