Hello @serix - I hope you’re doing ok and well done for reaching out on here for support from others. I can’t help with the work question, but I am almost 1 year from my diagnosis and wanted to share my experience with you, as I think it’s important to continue to support others where we can.
I was diagnosed in May 2024 when I was 38 years old. I had a 5cm tumour in my right breast and 1 enlarged lymph node. HER2 positive and hormone negative. I started chemo in June 2024 and had 12 rounds over 4 months. I then had a lumpectomy and full lymph node clearance in November 2024 and 10 sessions of radiotherapy in February 2025. I am continuing on targeted therapy until August this year. It has been a very difficult year but I am now learning how to live on the other side of a cancer diagnosis. I was told in January that there was no evidence of residual disease following chemo and surgery which I am so thankful for. I do worry about recurrence and grieve for my life before cancer, but I am finding my new normal and have a new perspective on life, what’s important and so much gratitude for what I have in my life. I miss the carefree days before my diagnosis, but I reflect every day on what I’m grateful for and am learning to live in this ‘new normal’. I am currently on holiday with my family, which I couldn’t even imagine being able to do ever again, only 11 months ago.
I wanted to share my story so far in the hope that it gives you hope and shows you that there is something on the other side of the diagnosis and treatment. Keep putting one foot in front of the other and you will get there. Hold on to hope and seek support when you need it. Sending you lots of strength xx