Member: Tracey62 | BCNA Online Network

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Re: FLAT AND FABULOUS?
Hi everyone, thank you so much for your stories, it's so reassuring to hear from you. Saw the Onc yesterday who said chemo & rads then recovery time before any potential recon. The public system usually does recon at 2 yrs, so that takes the pressure off making more decisions than I can cope with at the moment. Funny how you think you're coping ok but your brain just will not work logically. Will be "glad" when the surgeon gives me a date. Hope you all have a lovely day, Tracey xXx
9 years ago Place General
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Re: Mastectomy operation completed
Hi Hulos, glad you are now home with the ordeal of surgery behind you. There is no place like home for your healing physically and emotionally. I had physio after my lumpectomy in 2015, expect to have more when I have double mastectomy soon. If you can shower, it's a good time to do your exercises under the nice warm water. Also a good time when the pain meds kick in. Hope your recovery goes well, all the best, Tracey xx
9 years ago Place General
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Re: FLAT AND FABULOUS?
Ok so my quote for the week is now "Ditch the tits!" thanks for a good laugh Zoffiel :D Thanks Mel for sharing your story. I was stumped at the 10E, then realised that's dress size, not inches :o, which makes my 38DD sound humongous. I'm an 18DD and would happily go smaller, just not sure whether that's flat-small or recon-small. thank you ladies for responding to my posts, I'm off to read the Recon group. hugs to you all <3 Tracey
9 years ago Place General
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Re: FLAT AND FABULOUS?
Thanks Nikki, I thought the group was for those who have had a recon, didn't realise it was also for those of us still exploring the options. So glad you are happy with your results. hugs, Tracey
9 years ago Place General
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FLAT AND FABULOUS?
dont take this personally ladies . . . but I had really hoped not to find myself back here <3 2015 wide local excision, chemo 6 months, rads 6 weeks and 2 years Letrazole later I find myself back in the club that none of us wanted to join, but so grateful to know I am not alone. New scan shows THREE new primary tumours in my other breast. Thankfully other tests show no spread to bones, liver or lungs, and lymph nodes are not enlarged on scan. Much to be grateful for. so because this is not a recurrence or a secondary, but, lucky me, a whole new bc x 3, the surgeon is recommending bilateral mastectomy. I agree with him that sadly it is necessary. Ive been looking up mastectomy without reconstruction on the internet. There are some good sites like Flat & Fabulous that recognise not everyone wants reconstruction after mastectomy. I am a 38DD & the thought of not having heavy breasts interests me. Just think, no more sore shoulders and strap marks :D I had almost decided to remain flat after surgery when I saw some great results with DIEP flap reconstruction. Would really like to hear from anyone who has had bilateral mastectomy and either no recon or a flap recon. Did you get recon straight away, or after chemo? How did you decide and what has life been like for you since? How on earth do you make this decision? Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I WILL FEAR NO EVIL amen
9 years ago Place General
Reconstruction
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Re: alcohol and breast cancer reoccurence
"If you drink alcohol, you risk cancer" "If you smoke, you risk cancer" "If you are overweight, you risk cancer" heck! I'm at risk of cancer simply because I've already had it! i wonder if any of these "studies" have looked at whether those with recurrence drank, smoked or ate comfort food as a way of dealing with stress? I've endured surgery, chemo, rads and the joys of Femara, then battled to get back to full time work and IM STRESSED. If I enjoy an occasional glass of wine or piece of chocolate instead of little blue happy pills, then let me pull from life all the joy I can find - cheers big ears <3
9 years ago Place General
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Re: Lumpy after lumpectomy
Hi Becky, like the other ladies say massage works well and lumps are normal. I used Bio oil to massage and now 18mths after surgery the scar can hardly be seen ( 8 inches long, but faded really well). Just one other suggestion, I wore the post op bra for months after lumpectomy. The firm support really helped reduce the swelling and aches. Not sure if you are having any ongoing treatment but be aware, both chemo and radiation tend to flare up the swelling and lumps. My Onc has patiently scanned each new lump I find, good news so far. Great news that your body scan was all clear xx
9 years ago Place General
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Re: On a lighter note...Feeling finally like ME...a New Me....comfortable with my hair..
Yeah Kath, I keep thinking I must get rid of my old photo with long hair. That's how I remember myself, but the new short curly haired stranger in the mirror still catches me by surprise :o
9 years ago Place Living with breast cancer
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Re: On a lighter note...Feeling finally like ME...a New Me....comfortable with my hair..
Mel you are beautiful, inside and out! I love that you kept on smiling through it all. You've done more than survive, you, my dear girl have absolutely thrived xx
9 years ago Place Living with breast cancer
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Re: Before ,During ,Now,...After
Even though our lives can be divided into what we lived before bc and how different it now is after bc, there are those gifts in life that transcend that dividing line - love, laughter and the joy of just being alive. When we've been through the dark times, some things just shine all the brighter.
9 years ago Place General
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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.
Christianity & breast cancer
This group offers a welcoming place to share how your Christian faith supports you through the breast cancer journey. Connect with others who find comfort and strength in Scripture, prayer, and reflection. Whether you're seeking encouragement, community, or a place to explore spiritual resilience, you're warmly invited to join in fellowship and support. Prayers and Bible study are welcome.

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Tracey62

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Choosing breast reconstruction

Christianity & breast cancer