I was diagnosed with TNBC in 2015, followed by surgery and treatment (chemo and radiotherapy) in 2016. I was really lucky as my company has private medical insurance which means I've had follow-ups regularly for the past 10 years. I was finally discharged last week and I should be jumping for joy that I'm finally free and clear with the chances of anything returning being negligible. But I'm not. For some reason, I've been hit with low mood, anxiety and keep bursting into tears. Everything is heightened and I can't seem to get myself out of a very dark hole. Everyone keeps telling me how positive I've been throughout it all. Maybe that's the problem. I've spent so long 'fighting' and just getting on with it that it's almost like my brain needs a rest. Any advice would be appreciated.Am thinking counselling may help but have no idea where to start. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you for listening
Hi Bunny1971 and welcome to this little corner of the Community and congratulations on being 10 years out from treatment........ but once the safety net is pulled away it can be challenging to navigate life.
For some context I was diagnosed way back in 1999 at 43 with a rare (8 in a million) incurable but treatable type of Cutaneous T-Cell Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma……. eventually reaching Stage 4a in late 2013 when a second, also rare (4 in a million) type of aggressive Peripheral T-Cell Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma was then presenting so although my Cancer journey is very different I most definitely appreciate the challenges of this journey rather well.
My first suggestion would be to make a cuppa and have a look at this great paper.......
After Treatment Finishes - Then What?
....... by Dr Peter Harvey as it highlights the post treatment milestones...... and once you have read it read it again then come back to me with your thoughts.
My second suggestion is to join our dedicated........
....... support group. This group is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
My third suggestion is 'talking face to face'...... but talking with the right people so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
As for me....... my story is rather complicated See my story but when I was first diagnosed our daughters were 14 and 18…… but we went on to see our daughters graduate, get married, set up very successful businesses and provide us with 4 beautiful granddaughters….. I turn 70 at the end of this year and as a family we celebrated 9+ years since my last treatment. I am continuing to live a great life (even although one of Lymphomas is incurable) and we continue to look forward to what else life has in store first us to enjoy……..
Our secret...... as a family, for the past 25+ years we have defined how we live despite my cancer........ and never ever let my cancer define us ((hugs))
