Hello Lenaberry, so sorry to hear your traumatic times of late having recently lost your Dad and now facing this diagnosis with your Mum. I hope you have excellent support for yourself, and take support from the community here too.
Two books i found very useful were .....
Emotional support through breast cancer, an alternative handbook. By Cordelia Galgut. This lady is a psychologist and has had a breast cancer diagnosis.
The other book is.....What can i do to help? 75 practical ideas for family and friends by Deborah Hutton. I bought this when i felt lost as a good friends husband was diagnosed with cancer and rapidly became very unwell. Despite having had my own cancer diagnosis i didnt want to fall into cliches and thoughtless comments.
On a practical note i was sent a small hand made heart shaped cushion, by one of my friends to use in the car after surgery. It is only slightly bigger than my hand span, and not firmly padded, but was an added comfort between me and the seat belt.
In the 2 week post op period having my daughter help me wash my hair was a humbling and yet very intimate moment in time. I was grateful to her, but worried for her (and my son) as they are 19 and 23 respectfully and i know we are all trying to protect each other.
We have had flare ups, usually due to small matters, but we have managed to cuddle and make up too. My peeps are still at home with.me, so we have had to learn a new accomodation and consideration, with me accepting 3 adults now live here.
I wish for you and your mum the most uneventful recovery, and gentle times post op.
Thinking of you, and I know others will post here soon too. X
Lexilou x
