I have completed my treatment and reconstruction and I find it really difficult to find my way back. Does anyone know of a place that offers rehabilitation? I don’t really leave my home. I am also very isolated. I am getting counselling, but it is a slow process.
I find the thought of a normal life almost impossible to imagine. I don’t trust myself or my abilities anymore. I feel like I am only safe when I am inside. There is a wall that I can’t seem to get through. There doesn’t seem to be much in the way of rehab after cancer.
Hi Andromeda, My name is Emma I work in the Services Team at Breast Cancer Care. I wanted to let you know that we run Moving Forward Courses in Southampton.
Moving Forward courses are run in partnership with NHS hospitals. Looking at the issues you may face after treatment, they provide information, support and professional guidance on how to cope with and adjust to life after your breast cancer diagnosis. The courses are for clients who have completed or will shortly complete their hospital based treatment, i.e. chemotherapy/radiotherapy and are run nationally. Courses take place weekly for 4 weeks and the next one is coming up in February. If you would like more information about this call please call my team on 0345 077 1893 and we will be happy to talk this through with you.
We also have another Service called Someone Like Me which will put you in contact with a trained volunteer who has faced similar issues to those you are facing and understands what it’s like. They will be able to listen, share their experiences and support you to make the decisions that are right for you. Support is available over the phone and by email, and it is open to anyone who has or has had primary breast cancer and people undergoing genetic testing or who have received a genetic diagnosis. It is also open to partners, family and friends of those affected. To arrange to speak to a volunteer please contact the Someone Like Me team by calling 0345 077 1893 or emailing someonelikeme@breastcancercare.org.uk or check our website to see the volunteers who offer support by email.
If you would like to know more about these or any of our other services please do give us a call on the number above
Hi Andro,
Sorry I can’t give you any advice about services in Southampton but just wanted to say that I found the someone like me service so helpful. Speaking to people who are or have experienced the same really helped me get my thoughts together and come to terms with things.
I really hope you find the suppprt you need, it’s such a hard time but there is a way through, you are stronger than you think.
X
I just stumbled on this post whilst searching for something else. I’m sorry to hear you’re struggling but it’s great that you’ve made that first step in reaching out so well done! Adjusting to a new normal is challenging and I’ve found a local support group really helpful in finding my new normal. It took me years to feel more like me but everyone’s different.
Be kind to yourself : ) I took up gardening after chemotherapy which was fantastic therapy for me. Find a hobby as that can help.
I was diagnosed 6 years ago and I now help to run a cancer support group (all the ladies at the group have had breast cancer) in Eastleigh and Winchester which is not too far from you. It’s a group for survivors by survivors! It makes a huge difference knowing you’re not alone. If you google “eastleigh breast cancer support” you’ll find us. You can also call 01962 658170 and leave a message and someone will get in touch with you usually within 24 hours.
I know of many ladies who have found the Moving Forward courses really helpful and would recommend that. A few of our ladies found it helpful going to Wessex Cancer Trust in Chandlers Ford and just chatting with the befrienders there.
Breast Cancer Haven in Titchfield is also great with lovely grounds.
Wessex cancer support centre in Hythe are brilliant. I give reiki therapy there, they offer other alternative therapies. too All are welcome, weather you are a cancer patient ,family of a cancer patient, after treatment,etc.
I have lots of empathy for you. I am in a similar situation although I’m trying to move fwd still to have another reconstruction but am very uncertain.
I’m here if u need to chat I can listen or be a friend we can both help each other maybe?