How to move on a second time ??

I had my first b cancer in 2001.  Mastect/reconstr.     I was diagnosed again last June with a new primary.   Chemo first then mast/recon with temp expander in Nov.   This is still ongoing not expanded yet.   The docs say I’ve done well and I didn’t need radiotherapy.     I finish herceptin in April.     I’ve a great family and work are also v supportive but I now feel completely lost.    I’m too tired to do much and the thought of returning to work terrifies me as my job will hv to change as it was a physical job.    Every aspect of my life seems to hv altered and yet I should be glad to be alive shouldn’t I ??  

 

Hi helenm1

You certainly sound like you having a tough time at the moment and i feel sure that someone will be along soon to offer support and share experiences.  In the meantime, please do give out support line a call, there will be someone you can talk to and ask questions of.  0808 800 6000.

Best wishes
Anna
Digital Community Officer

Hi helenm1

I know just what you mean when you say you feel lost. I recently finished treatment for my second primary BC too. I had mascetomy, chemo and radio in 1999 at the tender age of 26. Got diagnosed with another primary in the other breast in 2014 and had lumpectomy, chemo and radio. Now on Tamoxifen and just starting back at work. I too have had amazing support from friends, family and work but emotionally and psychologically it is tough. I feel like I am having to rebuild myself right from the foundations. I thought cancer was a one time thing that I’d moved on from, then it rocked back up again like a very unwelcome friend! I have really benefitted from counselling which the BC nurses referred me to within the hospital. Talking to a professional psychologist experienced in the effects cancer can have on a person has been so helpful. If you can get some, I’d recommend it. Most importantly don’t worry about feeling lost - it’s normal. I’m lost too!! 

Thanks for your replies.  I’m still struggling at times but I am going to ask for some counselling xx

 

I have just come across your posts which were reassuring for me as I have had breast cancer twice too. I thought I was a complete freak. I was diagnosed in 1995 at the age of 37 and then with a new primary twenty years later. I have recently completed all my treatment and am back at work. I struggle with fatigue this time, my job consumes all of my energy and my nearest and dearest are concerned that this maybe detrimental to making a full recovery. Having had BC twice I feel very vulnerable although I try to shelve these thoughts as I must stay positive. I have a lot to be thankful for