advice re breaking news about my secondary cancer diagnosis to family who have lost a young mum to cancer 3 years ago

FormerMember
FormerMember
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I had mastectomy in 2006 and have been blessed with 14 years healthy life since then. My daughter in law died from secondary breast cancer 3 years ago leaving my son and their 3 children. I was diagnosed yesterday with secondary breast cancer in the sternum. I am wondering how best to break the news to my family. Any advice please?

  • Hi  and a warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community, a Community that no one really plans to see themselves joining, and so sorry to hear about your new diagnosis and understand the challenges you are facing although I have no firsthand experience to bring.

    But talking with other people who are on the same type of journey can help and I see you have joined our Breast, secondary cancer group, this is the place where you will connect with others walking the treatment journey both as a patient or family.

    Follow the above link then introduce yourself, post questions or just  join in with existing discussions by clicking on 'reply'. 

    Its always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support or just a listing ear.

    Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available.

    We also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.

    Our Online Information and Support Section  is a good place to find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers.

    All the very best.

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi PilgrimJ I too have just been diagnosed with secondary BC to the sternum and had a single mastectomy 1 month ago with a full anxillary clearance.  Doctors are unsure how to treat me until the next MDT meeting.  I am also sorry to read your news about your daughter in law and how aggressive this disease is and I hope you are receiving treatment to help you continue to live.  I am having to talk to my 20 year old daughter who lives on campus at university and I will be talking to her about my plans to go back to Australia to live.  It's bloody hard because I don't want to leave her but my family at home want to support me through treatment.  I live alone and I would love to know how you are getting on?  Did you speak with Macmillan about breaking the news to your family?  All the very best x