Im really struggling, mentally more than physically at the moment and although i have 2 adult children, a husband and many friends I dont feel I can share my thoughts and feelings with anyone of them, I feel its just too much to put on them and noone can actually help as they dont know what im going through. I have been seeing a councillor for 3 sessions now but found it useless.
Im her 2+ Stage 2 grade 3, diagnosed in March, just completed round 7/8 chemotherapy… will be having a lumpectomy and full lymph node clearance followed by radiotherapy. I had 4 rounds of dosetaxal and now on EC, little side effects this time round other than exhaustion but my mental state is on the floor. Just reaching out x
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So sorry you are having such a tough time - I can empathise so much with not feeling like you can talk to your loved ones; like you, I have adult children, but I don’t feel like I can ‘vent’ to them or my husband because I don’t want to upset them. And often I get the ‘it will all be fine’ kind of comments from other family members …I know they’re just trying to be positive and supportive but every time someone says something like that it just sets my teeth on edge.
I can’t really offer any tangible support or advice but just try not to beat yourself up for feeling the way you do…you are going through so much and you are entitled to feel low, angry, frustrated, scared…just try to be proud of yourself for continuing to put one foot in front of the other every day xx
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Hi @yondanh I’m extremely sorry you’re feeling so down and isolated. Just a thought, if you haven’t already, would you consider the Someone Like Me initiative from Breast Cancer Now? You’d be matched with someone who has been in your situation and you’d be able to have a more 1:1 relationship than is possible on the forum. I know when one is really down it’s hard to find the energy to try something new but one phone call to 0800 138 6551 Mon-Thurs 9-5 and Fri 9-4 could see you find a woman who has been where you are now. Alternatively, if you search for Someone Like Me from the homepage, there is a form you can fill in and email giving your preferences.
You’ve been through so much but maybe it can help to have someone on your side who has been there.
Just a suggestion.
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Thank you i have reached out to someone like me, hoping to hear back next week x
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I’m so pleased. I hope it helps.
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So sorry that you are feeling so low. Is the counselling from a cancer specialist or just general. I am seeing a psychologist at Maggie’s and it’s really helping as they understand cancer. MacMillan also do counselling which I think is by phone.
If you have a Maggie’s centre near you it is well worth seeing what they offer as they often have support groups and workshops or are just there if you need to chat or relax in a safe space.
I hope that you find the Someone Like Me helpful. I have 2 friends who have travelled this journey and they have been so helpful. They understand without long explanations. xx
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Thank you for your response… i am seeing a cancer Councillor yes, but finding that shes lacking the kbowledge of my treatment plan and just generally not getting anything from the sessions. Im now trying the someone like me route, just need someone to talk to who understands i think x
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Welcome to the forum @yondanh
I’m so sorry to hear how you’ve been feeling, and I know that many people on the forum can relate. Please know that the forum is always here for you.
I’m sorry that you’re not finding counselling helpful at the moment. Everyone’s journey is different and it may not be quite what you’re looking for at the moment. I hope that matching through Someone Like Me is helpful.
Our breast care nurses are also extremely knowledgeable and kind so please don’t hesitate to call if you’d like to chat. You can reach them on our free helpline 08088006000 which is open Monday to Friday 9am-4pm. 9am -1pm Saturday.
We’re thinking of you,
Lucy