I was diagnosed with DCIS back in September which resulted in 3 operations, the last being a mastectomy plus 4 nodes. Thankfully, i have no follow-up treatment!
I was wondering if anyone who has been through a similar experience could let me know how they got on with driving and the numb feeling in the arm please?
I really don’t know what I’m supposed to feel or how long it will take to fully heal. I’m looking at going back to my part-time job but don’t want to go back to early and end up off again.
Wow, well done for the good fortune of no further treatments but I reckon 3 operations makes up for that! As regards the numb arm, I’m told it varies from person to person. I had my surgery 15 months ago and my arm is still numb or nearly-numb all the time. The oncology physio says it’s likely to be permanent. When you think about it, removing the nodes must involve severing nerves. I still massage it daily and sweep along to the next lymph cluster as instructed and I reckon that’s why I have some sensation - maybe it would be worth asking your hospital for a referral to the physio to look at the numbness if you feel it’s impeding your driving. That’s an essential part of recovery!
I haven’t noticed any change in the strength of the arm so driving hasn’t been a problem (tho I had my first ever car accident when I was probably not fit to drive during chemo - it wasn’t my arm’s fault). I do, however, drive an automatic so there is less movement. I would say don’t drive until you’re certain you have the necessary strength to deal with any emergency action (handbrake, swinging the wheel etc). Having written off two cars and had a steering wheel straight into my sternum (private car park thank god), I know it’s just not worth risking driving till you are sure!
Could you have a phased return to work? Officially you are now registered by your employers as disabled because of your cancer so they must take every step to support you in returning when you’re ready. Maybe discuss it with Human Resources/your line manager but don’t feel you should or ought to be back at work if you don’t feel ready - the trauma of cancer isn’t just physical and your simpler treatment doesn’t mean you’re any less affected than someone like me who’s had the full menu. Best of luck,