Breast Cancer Now Forum

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 ... View more

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?   ... View more

Hi Angels. How is everyone? Are you back at work SJB? And have you seen anyone about your lymphoedema Barbie? Good luck with all the Christmas shopping. Stay well. Petal x ... View more

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 ... View more

Hi Sarahmummy Words fail me in this situation except to say you are in many people's hearts and minds and we send you the very best wishes whatever you decide. You have been so very strong and I for one will be sending you positive vibes. Much love, Petal x ... View more

That sounds alarming SJB but great to hear all is well now. Hopefully all plain sailing from now on. How did you get on Barbie? I was referred to a lymphoedema clinic to be checked rather than the surgeon so I will be interested to hear what the outcome was. Alledgedly unrelated ( but I do wonder after reading online about long term side effects of some chemo, especially the type I had ) I have spent several hours in the eye hospital this weekend and it appears I have Vitreous Detachment but luckily not a torn or detached retina. It could be down to my age apparently..... Best wishes to everyone. Petal x ... View more

Good to hear all is progressing well SJB. You must be so relieved it has finally all happened. Good luck with the recovery and enjoy the rest! Barbie what happened with your arm? I hope all is well for you too, Everybody else ok? Long may the lovely weather last. ... View more

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 ... View more

Certainly will and please tell her she is in our thoughts and prayers. ... View more

Hi Everybody. Apologies for the silence and thanks for the enquiries. I have finally had my neck scan, on both sides as the glands are still inclined to swell and settle, and luckily they "did not find anything of concern". Not such good news on the cat front as I sadly had to return her to the RSPCA. For three weeks I had tried to reassure her but she wan't just nervous, as they had said, but actually totally scared witless by anything and everything including her own reflection, any sounds at all, even of birds calling outside, and when she stopped eating I couldn't cope any more. I was distraught for ages but am now about to adopt a friendly little one year old cat from the Cats Protection. I had good news from the lymphoedema nurse yesterday that my arm swelling has gone right down and I may not need to wear the compression sleeve all the time now. There is light at the end of the tunnel and haven't we all made good progress even with the various ailments that crop up now and then? I do hope you are much more comfortable now Wyn. Barbie you sound in good spirits and a new baby in the family is always a good tonic. SJB, any news about Sarahmummy? I wish she could have some good news. Barbie please let us know when you have your ultrasounds. My next checkup is oncology in July and after that the surgeon in January. Petal x ... View more

Hi Everyone. Still waiting for neck scan and still getting swollen glands on and off but trying not to worry. I think they are only going to scan one side of my neck as that is what was affected when I saw the surgeon but now I have a sore gland on the other side. Just another two weeks to wait. Wyn how are you now? Abscesses sound very painful so I hope the tablets are working. Are you happier now Barbie? And how is life treating you, SJB? At times I think I must be mad trying to reassure a petrified cat that she is safe now but it is rewarding when she finally emerges from the sanctuary of her bed to come up to me and not flinch or run if I move. Cuddles are still a long way off unfortunately but she will let me stroke her now. It's all a lot harder than I had imagined it would be and I am keeping fingers crossed she isn't too damaged by whatever happened to her. I'll let you know when I get scan results. Petal x ... View more

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! 😀   ... View more