Hello all
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in early May. I had what i thought was another cyst but, scans and mammograms ,plus biopsies of my lump and lymph nodes showed breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy 6 weeks ago, two of my lymph nodes were removed too. My histology report came back 3 weeks later. The lymph nodes were clear but the cancer had spread to the other side of my breast. I underwent further surgery last week and my consultant removed another 3 mm from the infected tissue.
Since then (I'm 5 days post op), although i am recovering well physically, i am struggling with my mental health.
I can only describe the feelings that i have as being akin to grief. I'll be absolutely fine then feel terribly sad, sometimes waking in the night crying.
I have details of local support groups but feel like a fake. Lots of other people have a much worse diagnosis, i haven't lost a breast or undergoing chemotherapy. I don't even know at this stage what my next course of treatment will be. I'm dreading getting further bad new at my next consultation.
I have always been a very positive and proactive person and until my last histology report, i was dealing with my diagnosis really well. Second time around it has hit me hard and i feel alone and isolated.
I'm usually a really happy person so please don't let the above put you off from replying! I think i just need someone to validate my feelings. Thank you
Hi Imamum06 and welcome to the Macmillan Community but I am so sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
The cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type can help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you consider joining and posting in our dedicated Breast cancer support group. This group is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect with a group click on this link Breast cancer then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)
When you are ready you can introduce yourself by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title.
You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post..... you can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.
It’s a challenging time for you so you may want to use the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides 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.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
