Surreal time

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I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer two weeks ago - in my lymph node but cancer in breast proving hard to find. Until a routine mammogram in Feb I was never ill, pretty fit, just starting to think about retirement from a very stressful senior job. My whole world has crumbled and I feel so scared - had to come off HRT and facing chemo, mastectomy and radiotherapy in the coming months. Was proud of my looks for my age so finding thought of mastectomy really upsetting, let alone hair falling out. Have only told close family so far and feeling very daunted by the next few months. Would love to hear from others who have been in my position and have words of advice, especially the practical stuff.      

  • I can't offer any advice... I'm just starting out on this journey myself. I'm sorry that you, or anyone has to go through this. A whole new set of emotions, a whole new vocabulary to learn. It's a path that none of us wants to follow, but we will because we're stronger than we think. 

    Just sending hugs and hope. 

  • Hi  and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your diagnoses.

    Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from people who have walked the ‘exact same' cancer journey can help a lot. (I have a completely different cancer).

    The New to Community is like our reception desk where we look to try and direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our dedicated Breast Cancer support groups. These groups are safe places to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.

    To connect in with the group click on this link Point down

    Triple negative breast cancer

    Breast, secondary cancer

    …… then once the group page opens click in the [ Black - Click to Join - Banner ] that appears at the bottom of the page and this will then confirm that you have joined the group.

    When you are ready……. you can introduce yourself by putting up your very own post by clicking [ + Create new post] or [ + ] in the top right of the group page and putting

    You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.

    You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. 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 3 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 and give support to all the family.

    Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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