Member: TonyaM | BCNA Online Network

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Re: Finally brave enough to call BCNA helpline, and they are closed ...
Hi @FionaM, so sorry to hear you’re having such a crappy time of it.It’s hard to keep juggling all those balls isn’t it. My magic wand was a very low dose of Endep 10mg which got me through 4yrs of Tamoxifen. I didn’t have any side effects and it really helped with hot flushes, mood and sleep.I didn’t make it to 5yrs as I was palliative nursing my mum at home and it all got abit much. Luckily I’d retired earlier(I’m a nurse). Your priority is to get yourself feeling ok,even if that means taking a medication holiday till you’re over the acute situation with work and hubby. These bc treatments aren’t easy- I hear your rant and totally understand. xx
2 years ago Place Living with breast cancer
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Re: Support group
Hi @JvJ, if you ring BCNA,they should be able to tell you where your nearest support group is.I run a group in the Hills area which I think might be too far for you-nevertheless you are welcome.
2 years ago Place General
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Re: Second time around
Hi @CarolAnneS, sorry to hear this.The same thing happened to me,only 7yrs apart though. I had oestrogen positive invasive bc and yes,it returned in the same spot despite radiation and a supposedly clear margin from lumpectomy.I had to have a mastectomy and chemo the second time. That was in 2010 and I’ve been good since then. 18mths ago,I decided to have the other breast off because I couldn’t stand being lopsided and the worry any longer. Happy to be flat now.Best wishes-it’s tough but doable.
2 years ago Place General
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Re: The “journey” begins.
Hi @MrsMorrisey, depending on the cancer size,pathology and if no lymph nodes involved you might get lucky and just need the anti hormone drugs. I didn’t need chemo the first time but I did when I had a recurrence.Don’t think too far ahead.As far as telling people, I was really sorry I told everyone the first time as I ended up consoling them.I handled it differently the second time by only telling people when I had a plan and information. I also put my husband in charge of answering the phone and front door- instructing him whether I wanted to talk or not. You are going to need about 2wks at least post surgery of being looked after ie someone to cook,clean and maybe wash your hair for you.Time to put yourself absolutely first.Big hugs xx
2 years ago Place General
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Re: Wigs - where are the best places to get them in sydney
Hi @llonaC, I got mine at Windsor many years ago. I think there’s a wig stall in Castle Towers and I’ve also seen wig stalls at Paddy’s Markets in city.I run a support group called Kellyville Breast Buddies and we have wigs from time to time.I think I have blonde short bob wig.You are most welcome to come to our group if you need support
2 years ago Place General discussions
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Re: About to have double mastectomy no reconstruction - any tips?
Hi @SF73, Best wishes for your up and coming surgery.I went flat last year and I had 2 nights in hospital- I think it’s needed.Ditto to everything above, take slip on shoes as you can’t bend down to tie laces.Really take it easy for those first 2wks post op as you are healing internally as well.Once the drains come out(1week?) you’ll move a little easier.A seroma is not uncommon after surgery and may need draining so don’t be alarmed.I wore singlets for a few weeks and then found some soft crop top type bras to wear with abit of soft padding.I haven’t bothered with prosthetics. This will be individual and all trial and error.I was abit surprised seeing my flabby stomach without boobs! I was driving and feeling pretty good by around 3weeks.Mentally though,I think it took me 6mths or so to adjust and feel ok with myself.I joined a Fb group called Flat Life Australia and they are so supportive. We have a flat group here too but it’s not as active.I lived with one big breast and a prosthesis for 12yrs and I have to say it’s a lot easier to be flat.
2 years ago Place General
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Re: Late onset Radiotherapy issues
hi @LibbyA, yes it was
3 years ago Place Chemotherapy and radiotherapy
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Re: Late onset Radiotherapy issues
Hi @LibbyA, sorry to hear this. Radiation is the gift that keeps on giving. I know it can cause a pneumonitis- not sure if it’s the right term. I had radiation back in 2003,following a lumpectomy. I ended up with lung scarring and after 7yrs,cancer was back in the same spot and much bigger! I can’t help feeling that radiation may have caused the second one. My breast went rock hard and always felt weird. Even after a mastectomy, the skin still feels tight and weird
3 years ago Place Chemotherapy and radiotherapy
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Re: Totally confused after seeking second opinion
Hi @arpie, great advice! I’ve listened to that podcast and it’s terrific for someone embarking on this crap bc journey
3 years ago Place General
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Re: Totally confused after seeking second opinion
Hi @Tarma, the trouble is,you don’t know if the chemo is working or not for sure until a few months down the track when they rescan. If it wasn’t effective then the cancer is growing and possibly spreading. If cancer returns years later it can sometimes morph into completely different pathology so the original chemo might not be the one of choice.I’ve seen that happen too. Having a mastectomy reduces your risks of a local recurrence to about 1% of coming back in that chest area. With a lumpectomy and no radiation,it’s around 30% risk and with radiation afterwards it’s drops down to around 8%. These are the stats given to me for my situation many years ago so don’t quote me but at least it’s a rough guide. Ofcourse there’s no guarantee that a cancer cell might be lurking dormant elsewhere in the body.We’ll never really have 100% peace of mind but over time,you learn to live with it and enjoy life.
3 years ago Place General
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Groups

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.

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TonyaM

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Flat Chat - no breast reconstruction

Choosing breast reconstruction