Just checking in for the first time. I had a wide excision lumpectomy and full axillary clearance of lymph nodes. I am doing the exercises, the arm is a bit stiff around the shoulder when stretching it up, a pull on the wounds or muscles involved. The breast and axilla are quite lumpy but not inflamed. Is this normal. The axilla is swollen as well. No hoovering or heavy lifting, reading varying things about this. Is that just for 6 weeks or permanently.
Thank you. I am doing my best and coping ok but it does rather take over doesn't it? Results early Jan
Hi Jan Sabrina22 and a warm welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
A cancer journey is such a stressful and challenging time but you have done the right thing in reaching out to a place where you can ask questions and getting support from others who are on the ‘exact’ same cancer journey.
The Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) and I do see that you have already joined our supportive Breast cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others with 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) Group 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.
The Macmillan Support Line is open from 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 where you can talk with someone about specific cancer and practical information, get emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just connect with a listening ear. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
We also have our Telephone Buddy Service where you can be matched with someone who understands what you're going through, and they'll give you a weekly call.
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 and aim to give support to all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
We all navigate our own personal journeys as best as we can and all we can do is keep our eyes on the greater good in all this.
Yes Culloden is a very atmospheric place, we just live a 30min walk from the battle field so we often visit the area.
All the very best and let’s look for you to have a great Christmas and that 2023 will bring health and happiness.
