Breast Cancer Now Forum

Just read this http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/in-therapy-the-emotional-legacy-of-breast-cancer_uk_5a79d090e4b068f3b312933a . Captures my state so well. I was very fortunate to stumble into support from the psychoncolgy team and was massively helped through a very dark phase by counselling and tablets. Out the other side now but the niggles never leave....  ... View more

Hi Futuretwo - I think Drs tell us what they think we can cope with, waiting for us to ask the questions. Before BC I had no idea that there were SO many different types of BC and therefore a range of different treatments. I have HER2+ Cancer, which is called an aggressive cancer. I think years ago the prognosis wasn’t great but now with the range of treatments available the outlook is much better. I find knowing details helpful so have read a lot and ask questions of my BCN and Drs when I feel ready to hear the answer. Still went wibble when they decided I should be checked for bone mets due to a pain in my rib cage - all clear thankfully. If you have questions do ask. ... View more

I hate mumsie bras and searched hard to fine some to suit me -not easy at 40E. Eventually I found Royce t-shirt bras are good, ordered online from John Lewis and also one at M&S  ... View more

Hi Nicola I had a full auxiliary node clearance at the same time as a mastectomy as  a couple had showed up as 'thickened' on a MRI. I had 26 nodes removed and 2 were cancerous, which isn't too bad. I recovered very well after surgery. I have a bit of tightness now at extreme range of movement that I'm trying to work through but otherwise all is well. Worth if for peace of mind. Good luck to you with your decision.  ... View more

Hi Beebee i don't know about a massage machine but wonder if you might benefit from a physio assessment? I had cording early on but got through it with gentle stretching and got full movement back but, at a recent physio assessment prior to starting Pilates I realised that my range of movement has reduced. Now doing gentle stretching to try get it back. Do ask your BCN to refer you to physio for guidance.  ... View more

Hi Janet I waited six weeks after my MX and ANC to drive but probably could've driven a bit earlier if I'd wanted to. I had a bit of cording and also ongoing numbness down the back of my arm but, what I wanted to mention, is the need to keep up with the exercises. I did the physio exercises religiously after the op and had a great range of movement BUT shouldn't have stopped. Probably due to scar tissue and lack of full movement I have recently realised that I can no longer move my arm into the extreme range. Am so cross with myself for not noticing earlier. I am trying through gentle stretching to improve it but prevention would have been better than cure.  Alll the best ... View more

Thank you Helena! I braved it and, although I felt vulnerable, am so glad I got the first day over. People's responses were interesting - from ignoring the 'new' do completely to those that know me best being warm, witty and encouraging. Lots more people to face over coming weeks at the many meetings I go to but think I'll be fine. Every mm helps!  ... View more

Thank you Helena! I braved it and, although I felt vulnerable, am so glad I got the first day over. People's responses were interesting - from ignoring the 'new' do completely to those that know me best being warm, witty and encouraging. Lots more people to face over coming weeks at the many meetings I go to but think I'll be fine. Every mm helps!  ... View more

Am sure your mum is eligible for a free one. When I had mine fitted I was told I could have a replacement one every couple of years. Contact your local Breast Cancer Nurses - am sure you can find out which hospital by phoning this helpline.  ... View more

Hi Anita just wanted to let you know you're not alone. I too was diagnosed last April and have had every treatment available since, finishing radio just before Christmas. I was devastated to find a lump in my remaining breast ten days ago. Couldn't imagine how it could be possible for anything to grow through all the treatment but worked myself up into a frenzy regardless. Was very pleased to be fitted into see surgeon day after I called my BCN. He immediately put my mind at rest when he said the lump feels like a breast tissue lump before he arranged for an ultrasound there and then. This confirmed that it was nothing to worry about. I can't tell you my relief! So impressed at such brilliant NHS service. Hope your concerns are soon allayed too. It is awful not knowing and fearing the worst.    It has rattled me, as I was feeling really positive, like I was getting back to normal. I guess my new normal is hyper vigilance and background worry that will never go away. I am hoping it will recede as the months and years pass. A reminder to make the most of life!     ... View more

Hi Jaxz i am on letrozole and herceptin and went through a couple of months of tummy troubles- mainly suddenly needing the loo. Was a big problem when it happened out of the blue whilst walking the dog. I realised it was cyclical so put it down more to the herceptin than letrozole. Very pleased it has been improving each cycle. Not back to pre BC treatment but at least more reliable. But wanted to say that the herceptin nurses were very insistent that I shouldn't suffer with it as there are meds  that can help - e.g. Reduce irritation in the stomach. Might be worth talking to yourBCN or GP? ... View more

Hi Hollyelizabeth - I don't know about vests but I found New Look crop tops worked well. They are very soft and come in big sizes and have pockets perfect for comfee/prosthesis. Cheap too, which is good because they don't last long nor did I need them for long.  ... View more

Hi Sue C   juat reporting back about my experience of taking  cod liver oil in an attempt to walk across the room with some degree of elegance each morning and not like a very old lady. I have taken them for around a fortnight and am definitely less creaky in the mornings and when I have sat too long. It may be that the stiffness would have worn off anyway so can't say for sure it is the cod but I'm sticking with it and hoping for ongoing improvement. Also wonder if there is also a side benefit of improving my hair and nails? Hop so! ... View more