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tsjlhm
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Joined 6 years ago
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Side effects of radiation - help please
Hi, I’m after suggestions for some help please. I finished 5 weeks of chest wall radiation 8 days ago. Initially I was using zinc & castor oil cream and moo goo cream under a non stick dressing. However, the area has got increasingly purple, blistering and sore. I saw the breast care nurse 48 hours ago and she has given me mepilex dressings with instructions to moisturise first, let it dry a bit and put the dressing over the top. I can stand the dressing for about 12 hours and then when I pull it off to moisturise under, a whole lot of skin tears off and the mastectomy scar is starting to widen in the middle. It is so sore. I’m seeing the breast care nurse again on Tuesday but I wonder if anyone has any solutions in the meantime? Is this normal after radiation? Thanks so much for your help.106Views0likes2CommentsRe: Covid-19 and Chemotherapy
Many thanks everyone. We have decided to pull my two youngest children out of school from Monday and my older teenager will board with a friend. Unfortunately my husband is very high risk of exposure (medical) so we are both really struggling with how to manage this, both psychologically and practically. At this stage, if he shows any sign of becoming unwell, I will go into full lock-down in the bedroom for a couple of weeks. It's so hard when we have up till now had help from grand-parents, but we are also trying to keep them well. This is really rough but I know I'm not alone. Thanks for this wonderful community.2Views3likes0CommentsCovid-19 and Chemotherapy
Hi, I was wondering how members are dealing with the news of Covid-19 while immunosuppressed on chemotherapy? Im trying to self isolate as much as possible but it’s hard with husband working (medical) and kids. Thinking of pulling the kids from school and all extra curricular activities but that will have a big impact on them. I’d love to hear how other people are managing?Re: First post - struggling with the anxiety
Can anyone relate to this? I’ve spent the last week having tests and port inserted and due to start chemo on Tuesday. I’m really struggling waiting for chemo to start. It feels like the cancer is growing (even though I can’t bear to touch it to see) and I’m finding the waiting excruciating. Any tips gratefully accepted. I’ve never felt like this. I’m guessing nothing can be done over next 24 hours even if I rang the surgeon / oncologist tomorrow, nothing would happen before Tuesday at this point. Just need to wait it out I’m thinking.6Views0likes0CommentsRe: First post - struggling with the anxiety
Thanks everyone for your support. I’ve seen oncologist and surgeon now and you’re right. I feel a bit better having a plan. Lots of tests and getting port this week, chemo starting early next week. New hair cut today. Amazing how life has changed in one week. Deep Breath. One day at a time.3Views1like0CommentsRe: Panic attacks in the wee hours
Thanks. Feeling a little better. I’m out walking it off. A friend suggested swearing if slow breathing didn’t help so that gave me a giggle. She reckons the trick is to enunciate and be creative. Thanks for support. It feels like dumping on people but it really helps right now.28Views0likes0CommentsRe: First post - struggling with the anxiety
Thanks so much to everyone - I'm glad to know this anxiety gets a little better. Its like I can feel it growing inside me and just can't stop crying. This is rough on my husband too. Off for coffee for girl friends this morning before fasting for PET scan and going for walks whenever it gets a bit much. You're all so marvelous to answer my discussion. It's amazing how your whole life can change in a few days.20Views2likes0Comments
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Young women & breast cancer
This group is for young women affected by breast cancer. In the context of breast cancer treatment, ‘young’ usually refers to women who are pre-menopausal. Here, you can connect with others who understand the unique challenges that come with a diagnosis at a younger age. We talk about things like fertility, pregnancy, early menopause, ovarian suppression, relationships, and the emotional impact of treatment and recovery. Whether you're newly diagnosed or further along in your journey, this is a safe space to ask questions, share experiences, and support one another. You are not alone during this uncertain and overwhelming time.
