Just thought I’d post to say hello. I’ve found the community helpful when I’ve had questions and useful to get tips.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer on 30th April, had my lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy at the end of May. Currently recovering, just been to see the district nurse to have dressings removed / changed! Been reading about when to shower and what people are doing in terms of deodorant (the stuff you don’t want to bother the BCNs with!)
Feeling good, have been out walking with my other half (he has to hold the lead) and the dog every day which has helped.
Main question at the moment is whether I should shower. The district nurse said it was OK, but keen not to do anything too early and upset the wounds! She said they are healing well - she’s already taken the steri strips off, and left the wound under my arm uncovered
Hi Friendly_Fighter and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your diagnoses but good you have found the Community helpful.
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).
This New to Community area 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 group. This will be a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect in with the group please click on the link below
…… 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.
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.
