We’re developing a new online photo exhibition and we’d like your input. The Moving Forward gallery will feature pictures of people who have completed treatment and are moving forward from breast cancer. As well as providing a way for people to read about others who are living with and beyond breast cancer, the gallery also includes links to our services, so people can access free information and support.
The gallery is also a way to raise awareness of the issues faced by people living with and beyond breast cancer. To help generate media coverage, we’ve also included figures and quotes from a recent poll we ran about moving forward from breast cancer. Many thanks to everyone on the forum who took part - we were delighted with the response.
We’d also appreciate your help with the gallery. We already have a few photos up, but we want lots more. We’re hoping that more people will add their photos, whether they have recently finished their treatment, or had breast cancer several years ago. And we’d like to know what you think about the gallery so we can make sure it’s roadworthy before we launch it to the public.
Find the gallery at breastcancercare.org.uk/mfgallery and please tell us what you think. Thank you!
Mike that’s a fantastic idea and I found that very interesting to se people and hear what they have to say - often people go once they are past inital treatments.
I think it would be helpful for people who are going through treatment, chemo/rads to have a gallery section with stories too, some honest too.
There is so much uncertainty and a certain amount of mystique about what people LOOK like and SAY when going through this too.
I’ve got a series of “back of head” shots, starting with the long plait, going on to the short haircut, then the bowling ball look, and at the moment the fuzzy head of it growing back. Any use? Obviously I’ll be able to add to those as time goes on. (I want my plait back!)
CM
Hi,
Sounds good to me - at the moment you will only be able to add one photo to the exhibition but if there is one you would prefer after some time, just get in touch and we’ll update your profile. Thanks for your interest and hopefully this exhibition will be useful for many people.
Thanks
Mike
Can I play devils advocate…
Whilst the moving forward aspect is really important and imparts a very positive message (which gives hope to those going through or about to embark on their treatment), how about those that are stuck in a no-mans land type of place post kerfuffle! For instance, it could be overwhelming to see so many people doing so well, and yet there must be those that find themselves looking and thinking…why can’t I look/feel like that? There are lots of positive messages about people who go on to run marathons, climb mountains etc; who punch cancer right on the nose and move on, leaving behind those who can’t quite turn their lives around to anything like it was before?
Whilst encouraging and empowering some, exuberent positivity can be undermining and de-motivating to others.
I have really struggled with the treatment (breast cancer has got lost in the mix along the way) and reacted really badly to it. I hold down a responsible, busy job but am not in ‘control’ (in the loosest terms) of anything much in my life now. My previous ability to go to the gym and grab life by the gills has evaporated somewhat (2yrs post tx). Whilst I am eternally grateful I am not a statistic, I’m not alone in thinking and feeling that moving on doesn’t necessarily mean leaving cancer behind.
I certainly don’t want to undermine what the gallery has to offer as I think it is a brilliant concept, but am mindful that something more earthy regarding the reality of life after BC would also be really helpful. Reading some of the forum posts about recurrence anxiety, fatigue, self esteem, confidence etc are a good indicator that there is a tier of support needed - and I couldn’t think of anyone nicer to deliver it than BCC 
Help???
x
I think and know you are spot on with your views!
Thank you for reporting this scenario so well.
If I can creep under your banner and reiterate your words I am a dirct echo of your voice…
Welsh girl
Dear Loccie and Welsh Girl
Breast Cancer Care understand’s your need for support doesn’t end when treatment finishes. This is why we provide specialist services for those who post active treatment for breast cancer. Often it is then that support is most needed, how to live with the new normal. Below is a link to a specialist publication and if you look here breastcancercare.org.uk/breast-cancer-services you will be able to search for the most local Moving Forward Courses in your area. All our services are free.
Our Moving Forward publications are for anyone living with and beyond breast cancer, helping you feel more confident about life after treatment.
You can also call our free Helpline in confidence on 0808 800 6000.
www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/moving-forward/moving-forward-support-people-living-beyond-breast-cancer-sm23
Thanks Poppy…I have indeed received the moving forward folder, but I think the point I need to make is that I know my ‘probs’ are linked to the endocrine treatment and my oncologist has tried really hard to find something to suit me, but the thought of another three years of overwhelming medication will undoubtedly colour my view and make me feel in something of a nowhere man’s land. Maybe it is this cohort of people that my post is aimed at?
I have heard the cancer experience referred to as being a roller coaster, and I’m not sure if Welshgirll agrees, but each day, or even minute can be a roller coaster in life post BC. One minute feeling great, the next rotten. One day eyelashes looking more robust, then next all on the pillow…being able to talk coherently and remembering where you put the car keys, to finding yourself in the loo wondering if you just came in or are on the way out!
I jest, but it can be that random…for me and for some of my friends.
I have always been very fit, and have tried numerous ways and times of getting back to the gym, but when I have agreed with myself a routine - something really simple such as going for a walk each night, when you can’t do it, instead of the shrug of the shoulders and I’ll do it tomorrow attitude, it becomes something much bigger and quite destructive. Which is why I feel that although BCC covers getting back to exercise, there is an aspect that needs to go along with it. If I had to sit and write a hundred words about what is needed, I would probably fail, but maybe through my ramblings it might ring a bell with you?
Hope you’re perkier Welshgirl? Lotsalove xxx
I am having counselling BTW…which I would really recommend :()
Hi loocie, i just found your post , its the first time i have been on this sight and it could be me talking . I am 2 years down the road but am still struggling to move on .Constantly worry it will return ,and not dealing with the the enforced menapausal symptoms . Cried for most of today but think i really needed to as have not really had time to just deal with what has gone on (kids , work etc) think today i just hit the wall but am glad i have found this site to speak to others going through the same . thankyou charlotte xx