I know IBC is rare and at first I couldn't find any others on this site! I really thought I might be the only one!! Of course I'm sad that others have this shitty thing-but from a selfish prospective it is comforting and less isolating-I hope that comes over in the right way! I hope I can offer support to others, I do feel for those who are newly diagnosed-its terrifying enough to learn that you have BC let alone a rare, fast growing aggressive kind! It certainly takes some getting used to-if ever!
I was diagnosed 7th Nov. 08, have had chemo, surgery (mast + axillary clear.) about to start radio, having Herceptin and will start Tamoxifen shortly-so having the full works! Of course we deserve nothing less! I am lucky enough to be treated at Addenbrookes in Cambridge-one of the best I'm told. Oncology is always over-flowing but by some miracle every patient is treated, during the long waits I have found myself looking at all those brave souls and wondering why?? Why is there is so much of this b******d disease around? I guess if anyone knew that there would be a definite forever cure and preventative.
I am also lucky that I have 2 wonderful teenagers, fantastic parents and 2 really fantastic friends that are helping me through this, which is undeniably extremely difficult at times! I have had to stop work completely since diagnosis as I work with 2 1/2 to 5 year olds and it was deemed too high risk from infection-another blow as I absolutely love my work with the little darlings! ( not to mention putting on hold the degree I was halfway through).Still the consultant says I should be able to return to work in Sept. In the meantime after radio I'm getting myself a longed for dog and embarking on a very slow gentle road to some kind of fitness! I need some kind of normality!!
It is a constant struggle with money as a single parent exacerbated by the minefield 'social care system' for cancer patients, but with my mum's battering ram attitude has ensured a result.
I'm sure everyone finds their own way of dealing with cancer but I know it must help just by knowing and talking to others with the same issues-looking forward to sharing! Keep up the good work all.
Linda x
