I was diagnosed with breast cancer mid August 2007, 2 weeks ago I had a lumpectomy and had lymph nodes removed too. Got my results on Tuesday and do not need any further op’s (phew!).
Waiting to hear from my oncologist as to when I start chemo - am v.apprehensive, but reading through the threads on this site it has made my search for “proper” information far easier, and because you are going through the same as me, I feel at home.
I am married, got two children both girls aged 17 and 11. I cant begin to tell you how supportive they have all been - this has turned our world’s upside down, guna get rid of the little critter and get back to being “me!”
Firstly, may I welcome you to the Breast Cancer Care Discussion Forums, I am sure you will receive lots of support and advice from our users.
I thought you may also be interested in the Breast Cancer Care publication Resources Pack which can be ordered on line, it is filled with information to help you better understand your diagnosis, test results and the various treatments available - I have given the link here:
Congratulations on having finished surgery. Next stage for you. Good. I too have two girls age 7 and 5. They are a good distraction. Let us know how chemo etc goes. I get my results from mastectomy and node clearance on Thursday so I’ll be on the same path as you. That was my second surgery, had same as you orginially.
Good luck and Welcome to the forum. You’ll get all the answers on here!!
I’m so sorry you’ve had to join us but ‘welcome’ to this most awesome site. I have found it invaluable. I was diagnosed in March, age 34, and had a right mastectomy and total axillary clearance a week after diagnosis. Its a v.steep learning curve isn’t it??!! I didn’t realise just how little I knew about bc until I was diagnosed. I live with my boyfriend and as yet we have no children, although hoping that will change in the not too distant future!!
I’m so glad your op was a success and you don’t need any further surgery. That great news. So, onwards and upwards for you. I started chemo in may and am due to finish next month. I am on one called E-CMF. The time has gone v.quickly to be honest, and although it has not been a walk in the park it is very doable. If I can do it then anyone can!!
I wish you well as you continue this journey. I sounds like you have a lot of support around you which is great.
Take care and you know where we are if you need us,
What can I say to you all, other than, thank you for making me feel so welcome - I spent a couple of day’s just reading the forum’s before plucking up the courage to actually post one! I can honestly say I now know what fear really is.
Chemo is all a bit confusing to me - am sure my Oncologist will explain everything fully to me. Trouble is I keep referring to him as an Orthodontist (or is that just wishful thinking!) - have to keep reminded meself what he is! Wish it was me teeth!
Vanessa - good luck for Thursday xx
Kelly - your chemo finishing just in time for Crimbo, what an eventful year (putting it very mildly!) - yeah it is an extremely big learning curve - I’ve soaked up that much information, that it was me that got my consultant to send me for a Bone Scan! (which came back clear, much to his delight (and mine) - he couldn’tt have this 42 year old woman telling him his job!).
Welcome to our “Exclusive Club” ! Sorry you’ve had to join us, but like the other girls have said, you will find so much support, advice and encouragement on here - I know I have. Even if you 're having a bad day and want to have a rant, please do, you’re allowed to, and there’s always someone to listen, and cheer you up.
Great that you have no further ops to come - my treatment is the opposite way round to yours, I’ve just finished chemo, and am due for a mastectomy and node clearance on 3rd October. Chemo is definitely do-able, everyone suffers different side effects but the chemo nurses are great - they tell you not to suffer in silence if you’re not particularly well. The tiredness is hard though - like you I’m married with two girls (14 and 10) and trying to carry on “as normal” had a real effect on me, it took me ages to realise that I had to give in to the tiredness and go to bed, not rush around with the hoover !!
Overall, the chemo has worked which is brilliant, and now I’m just desperately waiting for my hair to grow back - LOL !
Ayway Karen, good luck with everything, please keep in touch, and any questions, you know where we are .
Julie - chemo over - hurray! Good luck with the op xxx Yeah I will do as you say and not be a martyr, and leave the hoover in my daughter’s bedroom - hint hint!
Diane - thank you for the welcome
Maddy - everything crossed for tomorrow, you will be fine xx