Last Monday I was referred to the clinic for a mamogram and within 2 hrs told I had cancer. Friday I was diagnosed with a 7cm ‘sausage’ plus nodes and potential 12 mnth care plan. Whilst I’m awaiting hormone receptive test results, I was given 2 choices but after delving deeper with the consultant, the path is body scans, chemo x 6, masectomy, radiotherapy, reconstruction. Family and close friends informed, saw a lady looking great with a bold head on Saturday and can’t stand the cold so no caps for me. The reason I think I’m in control is two years of an MSc in behavioural change, plus I am fundamentaly a positive, healthy active person ( apart from the vino). My first tough decision is whether I can continue my final year of research for the MSc or I’ll be too tired or 'chemo fog’will descend ( consultant recalls examples of individuals having to stop MSc due to treatment )I can defer and focus on getting better but its not my first choice…I simply dont know what to expect… I’ve just started marketing my own business ( the MSc is relevent) and decided to put that on hold. I am normally really active… Am I also naive 1 week in, insanely positive or totally in denial still ? Ps really moved by some of your challenges shared, I feel I’ve got it easy so far, just need to get on with it. Am I about to collapse in a heap?
Hi CacieC,
So sorry to hear about your diagnosis. It takes a while to sink in, my diagnosis was 6 months ago and I’m still in denial in some ways. No-one can say how you’ll be as everyone has such different experiences. I am a very positive person too but I’ve been completely floored and would not have been able to do my Masters research at the same time. Not because of chemo brain/fog because I can still think clearly but because of the fatigue. I’ve struggled to concentrate enough to read. However, you might be different and it might give you something to hold on to and keep your mind active? I think if I was in your situation I’d talk it through with my research supervisor (if you have one)/university because you will need a flexible approach from them whatever you decide to do as you won’t be able to work on it as you would otherwise and the sooner you discuss it with them the better.
All the best, x
Thx for taking the time to reply - I am speaking to her later today so that will help. Funny, knowing someone else has personal experience can be tremendously supportive in taking a decision for yourself. Thank you ?
Hi, sorry you find yourself in the club you wouldnt really want to join. I had just started my msc dissertation the beginning of the year when I was diagnosed. As has been already said everyone is different but after discussing with my supervisor I applied for an interuption of studies rather than deferal. Mentally and physically I wasn’t in a position to carry on despite being normally a “coper” and positive person. I am an avid reader but haven’t read a book since April as I’ve no concentration, good luck with whatever you decide x
Hello everyone, I took your advice and have taken a 6 month break, I’m sad I won’t graduate with my amazing peers but I know they are there for me. The relief was unexpected but now I have time to make jaffa cakes ? Time to be kind to myself thank you.
hi Cacie,
im sure you made the right decision for you…I have been continuously studying something or other all through my cancer journey…had done 1st year of a BA Art last year, but found I was getting very over sensitive and didnt feel like writing my dissertation…luckily, I had some support, but I think I would have done better without being on chemo…I made the decision to take this last year out, and fully intended to finish this next academic year. However, I am now on i/v chemo and had to tell the tutors I just wouldnt be able to…
i am so glad I made that choice…like you I was sad not to graduate with my group, but am so very happy to be having a break!
best wishes and congrats on makng a difficult choice.
Moijan
ps when you eventually go back, …my oncol wrote several supportive letters to the tutor, at my request, when I just couldnt get to the deadlines on time, due to feeling tired or unwell
Huggy thoughts???
Thank you Moijan, your response is really appreciated.?