Hi Angels. I logged in today for the first time in ages and was so sad to hear the news about Sarahmummy. Thoughts and prayers go to the family as they must still be devastated.
I hope life has returned to some semblance of normality for the rest of us lucky ones even if we have had to adjust in many ways since treatment. What about your op, SJB?
Best wishes to all. Petal x
Hi all,
I'm so sorry to hear of Sarah's passing and I know she will be missed by many users who got to know her well. Please pass on our condolences to her family from Breast Cancer Care.
News such as this can come as a shock, so if you need someone to talk to do not hesitate to call our helpline.
Take care all,
Bonita
That's heartbreaking news................
Poor Sarahmummy and her family. Absolutely devastating. There are no words at times like this........
Treasure life everyone, it's news like this that really makes you appreciate what you have.
I hope you are all keeping well and enjoying the summer.
Jules xxx
Hi Petal and SJB,
Nice to see your posts, sorry to hear you are still going through problems.
I dont visit often nowadays but like to check every now and again to see if any of the angels have posted.
My SIL was diagnosed with BC exactly on my third anniversary ( couldnt beleive it). fortunately it was caught early and she did not require chemo so her treatment was done very swiftly and she is now recovering well.
Glad I was there to offer support as I know how frightening this journey can be and I suppose it helped knowing that I got through it.
To my shock I have also recently been diagnosed with diabetes (life sucks sometimes) although its not serious enough to be medicated and I am making adjustments to my lifestyle and diet, I would not be surprised if chemo had a part to play in the onset as I have heard that before.
On a happier note I am keeping myself busy with work and love looking after my grandson who is 2yrs and 8mths now and he is a wee character.
Hope everyone else is doing well and taking care of themselves
hugs
Wyn x
Oh you poor thing, that wasn't expected and you certainly have suffered. It sounds horrendous and I do hope you feel much better soon and that all goes to plan from now on. We are still here anytime you feel the need.
Personally, I am pleased that my mammogram was clear again but I still struggle with painful oedema in the breast. The lymphoedema in my arm is much better these days but I always have to watch how much I tackle and the arthritis in my hands is not so good. I guess we are all a bit scarred in different ways but I can't help wondering about Sarahmummy. Is there any news?
Are there any other Angels out there? How is everyone?
Hi Ladies,
Hope you are all well and getting excited about Christmas approaching.
SJB glad to hear you are on the mend and back to work.
I recently had my annual check up and mammogram and glad to say all is well 3yrs on although still have the aches and pains that I now accept as the new norm for me as I can be full of energy one week and then exausted the next haha I need to find a balance.
Take care everyone
Wyn x
Hi Angels
It is that time of year again when a lot of us have the anniversary of our fateful mammogram and diagnosis and it is hard to think that was three years ago now. How is everyone coping? I'm sure we all have different legacies from our cancer and various treatments. SJB how is the convalescence going?
What about the possible lymphoedema, Barbie? Mine in my arm is at last subsiding but my boob, ribs and underarm are permanently painful and it has affected me quite a lot over the last couple of years. I do hope anyone who suspects that they may be getting it will see a doctor promptly as it can happen suddenly and at any stage, even months afterwards and early treatment is vital. Sorry that sounds like a lecture but I do wonder how aware everyone is about it.
Has anyone done anything exciting lately or been away anywhere nice?
Best wishes to one and all. Petal x
Sarah I am so sorry to hear your news. You are a very strong lady and I have no doubt you will keep fighting. I pray that you accept the weekly taxol and that it is effective. Please don't give up hope. Sending you some positive thoughts. Big hugs xxxx
Hi Sarah,
I really feel for you and your family for what you have endured and echo everything that has been said,
Your strengh, courage and determination has got you this far and your family will be so proud of you so you keep fighting girl and I am sure all the december angels will be holding your hand and supporting you every step of the way.
sending lots of love and hugs
Wyn x
Oh Sarah my heart goes out to you. I can't even imagine what you must have been going through. Thank you so much for sharing this with us, when you've so much else going on in your life. Only you can make the decisions you're going to have to make. I hope there will be people on these forums who can bring their own experiences & perhaps help you to decide. Love & big hugs to you and your family ❤️ X
Dear Sarahmummy
Words are totally inadequate but thank you so much for being so brave and posting on the thread.
We are all thinking of you and praying for you.
Love and hugs, Jules xxxxx
Hi everyone Sarah here. Long time no visit. I can see that sjb cut and paste a facebook message I wrote. I wish I had known as I would of had the decency to log in and respond to your well wishes. It is great to read your all cancer free albeit with hurdles to jump and ongoing concerns with some things xxx rather than a secondhand update I thought I'd say hi myself. Obviously we are all coming up to three years of this blimmin situation. I have now had two big operations , involving a free flap from my tummy as all my Breast skin had to go to. This time last year it was still primary in breast area so east grins trad removed the lot! I had great recovery but the cancer appeared again in the skin near my neck in January just along the scar line. The biopsy confirmed what it was and the scan showed spots in my lung and chest lymph involvement , so it was feb this year I moved into the incurable group. I have tried two lots of chemo both ones that are for long term quality of life vs the hard hit cure. Both haven't worked and I found out last week that the second hadn't so devastated. All year feels wasted and I am pretty weak now as its lung, thyroid, chest, skin, armpits, around heart......pretty large tumours. It's time now. Royal marsden want me to try taxol on a weekly basis to see if this can control its growth .....really, weekly ... I have till Friday to decide .... I have to say I will probably give it a go but if the side effects are bad ....what's the point with no quality of life and not being able to do mum things. I spend to much time in bed now xxx well that's me, I have had 55 radiotherapy and 35 chemo sessions with 6 different drugs ..... The body getting tired now! Xx please I hope you don't mind this message, I haven't messaged coz I don't want to put doom and gloom but I felt updates should come from me and was overdue lovely ladies xxxxx
Hi ladies
Great to hear everyone is doing well especially SJB and her new assets!
finally spoke to my GP about the suspected lymphadema in my arm and I have an appointment on Wednesday with breast surgeon. It still feels achy especially when using the mouse on the computer and when driving but it hasn't worsened.
Hope everyone has a good weekend x
Hi Ladies,
Great news SJB that you have finally had your recon. Delighted things seem to have gone well and I hope you are recovering well at home.
Hopefully all plain sailing from now on for you!!!!
Lovely to hear you everyone is getting on. I'm doing fine - had to have surgery to remove an ingrown toemail 6 weeks ago (an issue with chemo destroying my nail) but all done now so pleased that's out of the way.
I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying this lovely weather.
Hugs to all, Jules xxx
Hi Barbie. Good news about the lumps, that waiting time is horrible, isn't it?
I would definitely ask either the GP or Breast Care nurse to refer you to the lymphoedema clinic where they will take measurements all the way up both arms and compare them, which tells them how much fluid is there. I have had lymphoedema in my right arm and breast for a long time now and it started slowly with an increase in size and no other symptoms. Hopefully they can say it is ok but the sooner you are seen the sooner they can do something about it if necessary. It is my right arm as well so it may be awkward (presuming you are right handed?) but try using your left hand for as many tasks as possible and certainly don't lift or carry anything heavy with your right hand, not even putting a handbag **bleep** that shoulder! I don't want to scare you but it is vital you know one way or the other because you may need to wear a compression sleeve and they are special ones that are on prescription. Please don't just wait and see, it may take a while to get an appointment.
We we will be thinking of you SJB so do keep us listed on your progress. Kinky knickers!!
I was pleased to be told my neck scan was ok and I have just had my checkup with oncology. I see the surgical team again in January and possibly annually afterwards but I am now finished with oncology as they no longer keep tabs for 5 years.
Anyone else out there? Still doing ok?
Petal x
Hi Barbie.
Sorry, I don't know about your arm, but if it isn't troubling you, I shouldn't think it's anything to worry about.
I had my pre-assessment ready for my reconstruction yesterday. I've waited so long, and now it's less than 4 weeks away. Seems unreal!
it's going to be uncomfortable for a while...gotta wear tight fitting support bra, tummy supporting knickers (that come right up to your boobs) and support stockings for weeks afterwards!!! Basically all the time except when showering. Anyway, I'll keep you all updated on how it goes. My big day is Thursday 25th August.
Hello angels
this thread is very quiet these days which is a good sign that everyone is moving on.
how is everyone doing?
i'm good, had an ultrasound a few weeks ago on two lumps one on back and the other on leg. Both were confirmed to be fatty lumps. Thank goodness, it was such a relief.
Can I ask about early signs of lymphadeama, my right are feels ok, a little discomfort at times but it is bigger than my other arm. It doesn't look swollen or red I'm just aware that it is different to the other side. I'm assuming this is normal after the axillary clearance however would be good to compare.
big hugs
Hi ladies, hope you are all well
So Sorry to hear of Sarahmummy's news, my thoughts and prayers are with her .fingers crossed her new treatment will work.
Sending hugs
Wyn x
Thanks SJB for updating us on sarahmummy; such terrible news.
Thinking of her and praying for her.
Jules x
Hi girls
yes my cough and cold has finally gone!
ooh wyn abscesses are very painful, I hope you are on the mend 🤒
Hows things with yr scan petal, any news?
i don't know how everyone else feels but I am finally moving on with my life and it feels great. Still worry about C coming back but not so much anymore. Feeling very positive about things although I'm waiting for an apt for ultrasound as I have a lump on my back just at the bottom of my shoulder blade and another on my leg. It's probably nothing but cant help but wonder what if!
Hasn't the weather been fab this week!! I've had a few days off work and spent most of it tidying the garden, looks great, even put fairy lights up to finish it off. Not to mention topping up my tan.
Its strange how different hospitals have different follow up schedules. I am still being followed up by oncology and breast surgeon. Both of which I've seen recently and see breast surgeon in 6 months and onc in 12 months.
Had some good news today my nephew and his girlfriend had a baby girl today, can't wait to go and meet her. 🍼 It has come as a surprise as she didn't know she was expecting.
nite all X
Hi Ladies,
How are you all doing, petal hope everything has gone well at your scan, Barbie good to hear you enjoyed your holiday and hopefully your cough etc has cleared up.
I have been on antibiotics for last two months now for abcesses and they seem to be helping.
I was at oncology appoint this morning and they have now discharged me but will continue to attend breast clinic on a yearly basis.
Feel as though I am now getting my life back
Hope everyone is enjoying the sunshine and feeling ok
Sending hugs
Wyn x
Hi Barbie. I'm glad you enjoyed your holiday and I'm sorry to hear you feel low now. Silly people not wanting you for the job but maybe something better will turn up. Their loss. There are lots of viruses about at the moment, combined with hayfever for many, but it's good news about your checkup with the surgeon. I am still waiting for the scan of the glands in my neck and still getting swollen glands but maybe that is to do with mild hayfever.
I have given myself a lovely distraction from health issues as I have recently adopted a little rescue cat. I haven't had a cat for years but have always liked them and this little one has been through a lot of trauma, not least in having had her tail amputated. It is going to be a very slow process gaining her trust but every day sees improvement. 🐱
I hope you feel better soon, Barbie, and SJB you must be counting the weeks now! 😀
Hi guys
im back from my holidays, had a fantastic time in Spain. Lots of sunbathing, g&t's and girly fun. Reality has resumed with a visit to see breast surgeon, all was fine phew. Also I had an interview before my hols for a promotion at work and I have just found out I was unsuccessful. Quite disappointed about it but it is what it is.
Now I feel like poop, 😷🤕🤒 coughing, tight chest, mouth ulcers and feel run down.... Is this the post holiday blues!! Maybe I need a holiday to recover from the one I just had.
How is everyone else doing? Well I hope 😀
SJB it's great news about yr recon date, I'm so pleased for you. 👏
Hugs to all x
Good news SJB at least you now have a date to focus on and be prepared for the op and as you say you will be fighting fit by christmas and that is not too far away going by the rate this year passing lol.
Take care everyone
Wyn x
Oh Wyn, that sounds yuck. Well, I finally have a date for my reconstruction. Got everything crossed that it all goes to plan. I am due to check in to the Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead on August 25th. The op will be carried out that day, and takes at least 8 hours. No visitors for 24 hours afterwards, but should be able to go home after 4 days. Then 6-12 weeks off work for recovery. Should be fighting fit again before Christmas, which will be 3 years after my diagnosis!
HI Ladies,
Great news Barbie, it's the waiting room thats the worst isn't it.
Petal it sounds positive that they are not concerned about your swelling so fingers crossed it's all fine too.
Glad you both enjoyed the Easter break, we all need a wee bit of cheering up sometimes, hope you have a lovely holiday Barbie.
My holiday was great, just what I needed, lovely hotel,good food,mostly sunny, great strolls on beach and not forgetting wine and cocktails now it's back to earth with a bump
.
I am currently on an agressive antibiotics for Hidradenitis suppurtiva which has developed since end of treatment, -( recurring abcesses) under my arm, at first gp was just prescribing standard antibiotics on a regular basis but by chance when I was at the breast clinic in Nov I had a flare up and the breast surgeon mentioned condition, so " as you do" I went home and googled it and discovered the symstoms were the same.
My GP dismissed it before I went on holiday and said it could be down to raised sugar levels however sugar levels came back normal. I since went back after holiday for a second opinion and guess what !!! it is. so I now have to take these for god knows how long ( his words were how long is a piece of string, could be three months or a year or possbly no end to them as there is no cure for this condition just to treat symptoms):smileysad: dont think that is going to help my immune system.
anyway MOAN OVER but so glad I could share it.
Take care everyone
Wyn
Hi Barbie. Good luck with the results. Do let us know what they say.
My sore glands have taken ages to subside and the BCN advised a checkup and the surgical team saw me this week. There is nothing they think suspicious under my arm but because I still keep getting sore glands in the LHS of my neck they are going to scan to check all is ok. They do look after us if we are worried, don't they?
Did everyone enjoy the Easter break? I went to my daughter in Buckinghamshire for ten days which was great and now I am trying to find the energy to cope with all the gardening that suddenly needs doing at home.
Hi ladies
Just wondering how is everyone doing???
Wyn I hope you have had a lovely holiday..
I'm loving the light nights now that the clocks have changed and Spring is here.
had my bone scan and go on weds for the results. It's an anxious time especially when the pain is bad today in my hip and leg but hopefully I will get good news. Hope you lot are all symptom free and enjoying life 👍😘 ❤️
well done for the positive results on your mammograms ladies.
Petal I hope i's nothing to worry about - no news is good news
Barbie I hope your bone scan is clear also, it's easy to say don't worry but we all do.
I empathise with both of you and sending you cyber hugs
My blood tests were fine, I will just need to get used to these creaking bones and aches haha.
If I have learned one thing on this journey its not to be flippant or complacent as to what I have been through as I know only too well my sister had her 2nd diagnosis on her other breast 18yrs after 1st.
My motto is take each day as it comes and hope its a good one.
PS I have booked a late break to majorca next week as a surprise birthday gift for my OH, That's my excuse anyway and I am sticking to it haha lets hope the sun is shining
Take care
Wyn x
My consultant was happy with my physical examination last Friday, and my mammogram went okay on Wednesday. Back when I'd been diagnosed and was first discussing treatment and surgery, I was told that if my cancer came back it was very unlikely to be in the other breast though, so these mammograms feel a little irrelevant to me.
I've picked myself up from the dip I experienced earlier this year. I won't let it (cancer) win. I got my life back, and I intend to live it to the full. Waiting for Surgery dates should not be something that dominates my life.
I hope the mammogram results come back clear for you and the puffiness in your good arm is just due to the flu. Are you all having the flu jab annually since treatment. I have been.