I’ve just been diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time. 16 years ago aged 40, I had it treated with surgery, chemo and radiotherapy. I’ve now been diagnosed again on the other side and they are talking about possibly needing the same - surgery, chemo and radiotherapy again. I feel really low about the prospect of having to have chemo again. Anybody else gone through this twice? Any positive tips? Xx
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Welcome to the forum @anne6 - lots of people active on the forum who’ve been through this twice and sometimes many years apart , hopefully someone will be along soon to share their experiences with you .Best wishes Jill x
Hi Anne, I’m so sorry to read your news. I had the same thing. Was diagnosed first time in 2009, had chemo, surgery, radio and a year of herceptin plus hormone treatment. I was diagnosed again in 2022, a different cancer in the other breast and had the full works again. I was 37 first time, am just about to turn 53 now. It’s not easy and the issues are different at this age. And having it twice feels hugely unfair. But you can get through it and having done it once you already know that you can that. I assumed a lot because of my last experience which wasn’t always right. It can feel quite isolating and it is different. I spoke to a lady through breast cancer now who had had it twice and that really helped. I had a mind set of I’ve had it twice, so that’s it, I’m going to get it again. But two years on things are much, much better, I feel physically and mentally much stronger. Take it easy, be kind to yourself and accept counselling. Big plus is that this new surgery has made my breasts match 
Hang on in there big hugs Lisa x
Hi Lisa, that is so helpful and encouraging! Thank you so much! x
Dear Anne - I am just going through having breast cancer twice . Although mine is only 12 weeks apart. It is very difficult and I am truly sorry to hear your news. My chemo starts in three weeks and I am trying to hold onto enjoying every day and just being busy. Sending you best wishes and strength. We are all here.
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Thank you so much Jan, that’s really helpful. I’m so sorry you’re going through it again now too. I agree, keeping busy is helpful to me too - I’m trying to do lots of distraction! And knowing others like you and Lisa who know what it’s like are in the forum makes me feel less alone. What a lovely community! Thank you! And good luck with the chemo x
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Hi Anne
3 times for me 2012, 2018, 2020… i tell myself im lucky as BC is one of the most treatable cancers …i also feel lucky that all 3 cancers have been primary …i live my life as a glass half full girl…i wish you well with your treatment
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Thank you so much Cat, you’re so right in all you say. Very encouraging! 
how are you getting on, Anne? hope you’re doing ok x
That is so kind of you. I’m doing ok. Just been back in for a wider excision of my wide excision. Waiting now on whether or not I need chemotherapy. Have had my blood taken for genetics. Day at a time! x
That’s all you can do really. Take care xx
Hi Anne, so sorry you have been diagnosed twice. I had a right mastectomy in 2004 no lymph node involvement, no further treatment. Unfortunately this year I went for a scan relating to my bowels and it picked up two tumours in left breast and in the lymph nodes. To say I was in shock was an understatement. In April I had left breast mastectomy, was put on letrozole, had 15 sessions of radiotherapy and am now having bisophonates infusions and on abemaciclib. It’s a struggle as I am 79 now and having lots of difficulties parting with any blood in my arm. If ever you want to chat feel free to dm me. Take care and stay well.xx
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Gosh I’m so sorry about all your treatment. It’s such a shock isn’t it. It has really helped me when other people have shared similar experiences. Thank you so much for sharing yours. I have another appointment on Thursday to learn what happens next so knowing I’m not alone is so helpful, thank you!
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