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Twiggyjumps
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Joined 9 years ago
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Re: Your experience regarding PET scans
Yes I was naive. And I also still find that when I receive an imaging referral from a Dr, the reception want to book me in to the one on the slip. I just say I’ll do it as I want to shop around and get bulk billed thanks and they get a little like ‘Ohhh sure?’ Yep why pay extra - if it can wait a few more days then save!Re: Your experience regarding PET scans
Last year I had 2 PET scans within 6 month period. One for the sentinel node biopsy and to see the active cancer pre chemo, and the second was for post chemo to see how the cancer was resolved by the chemo. The dye was used also. Each time the dye was to be done prior to the PET scan, they made me wait an hour before having the scan so luckily I took in my hot water bottle to keep myself warm whilst waiting as I was asked to lay down in a small room that was cold. So I’d keep myself warm and have a snooze. If I recall, the scan took about 30 minutes so I’d ask for a small towel to cover my eyes to relax and I’d recite a few dressage tests that I had ridden on my horses at competitions. Each scan cost me $800 out of pocket. But I wanted whatever I could afford through fear. Fear is the driver! I discovered later by chance that I didn’t have to go to the particular imaging department on the referral. The referral can be used anywhere. So I shop around and find that the imaging places that have applied for and paid a full Medicare rebate license or whatever it’s called, bulk bill patients. Those imaging providers who’ve only partial license, pass on the Gap to the patient. That’s my experience to date.Re: Dosage os Tamoxifen
I’m on 20mg tamoxifen since December. About 20 min after I take it, my thermostat works overtime! Hot flush no. 1 then about 1 hour later another and so on. Then they slow down when I’m distracted and also in the evening. If there’s a heater on, it triggers it off again. But then I’ve also been feeling the cold. When stress is low, I don’t nearly get as many. When I stress, they start.Re: What food do you eat?
I bought different flavoured cordials to add a little to water. I love water so didn’t want to go off it while on chemo. But needed lots of fluids. Powerade really helped to. So did Maccas and Latte! I added tomatoe sauce or something to disguise the taste. I had a good appetite most of the time. I did go off dove shampoo and conditioner though as I used it on the last tufts of hair on my scalp that I kept so I could wear wigs. Bloody things were so itchy. As winter came, beanies were my friends morning and night. X
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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.
