I too was diagnosed with breast cancer in June this year. I have since been through the barrage of tests and am awaiting a date for mastectomy surgery. I have the option to have reconstruction at the same time but I am confused with the multiple choices available. Initially I elected to have tissue taken from my tummy to be used for the reconstruction. However, I also have COPD and as the extended surgery will take 8hrs I am concerned about putting my body through this. Has anyone had delayed reconstruction and is it worth having? I am now leaning towards just having the breast removed and using a prosthetic? Please can anyone help?
Hi AJAYGEE and welcome to the Online Community although I am sorry to see you joining us and to hear about your diagnoses m. A cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but when it comes to support there is nothing better than talking with others who are in the exact same position.
The Community has various support groups (discussion rooms) so can I suggest that you consider joining our supportive Breast cancer group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link I have created above. Then once the group page opens click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go. You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
Macmillan have many support services so do check out the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. These services provide cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful 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.
Give me a shout if you need further help.
Best regards.
Anita, everyone’s cancer journey will be unique and at one point in the future your journey will be a support to others setting out on their journey…… with that in mind you may want to develop your profile as you will find it therapeutic seeing the progress in your journey - there is a link at the bottom of my posts that shows how to do your profile ((hugs))
