Hello,

I've just joined the site and thought I'd say hello.

I've been diagnosed with breast cancer and today is my last day in work.  On Tuesday I go into hospital to have a mastectomy, all my lymph nodes removed and a LD reconstruction.

I'm 28 and have no history of breast cancer in my family and so everything has come as a shock.

Starting to get nervous about going into hospital.  I have my pre-op this afternoon so hopefully after that and after seeing the ward that I'll be on I'll feel a bit better.

Ellie

Hi Ellie,

Just wanted to wish you good luck and to say that lots of folks on here have been through what you are going through. Yes I think everyone is nervous at the start of treatment but once you get into the swing of things it will get better.

When you need us we will all be here for you and you will get lots of support and advice from the lovely ladies in the breast cancer group if you post there.

Big but gentle hugs,

Colin xxx

Hi Ellie, I am 42 and in august had mastectomy and lymph removal. My recon will be later on. Like you I had no history it was such a shock. I am now having chemotherapy and all I would say to you is take one day at a time. Don't try to look ahead too much, you have so much to deal with physically and mentally. Make sure you have lots of people around you to support you and let them do things for you. Chatting on forums like this really helps as you can share experiences and get great advice. I was terrified having my surgery but it was more the thought of having anaesthetic and being operated on than the thought of losing a breast. Couldn't wait to get rid of it to be honest as I was scared of it spreading. You sound really positive though and It really helps you get through it all. Make sure you do all the exercises they give you and don't expect to be back to normal straight away. It took me a while to regain full movement but now it's pretty much perfect. I really hope it all goes well stay strong I will be thinking of you. Claire