Hello
i was diagnosed with stage BC in April, 2 weeks ago I had DIEP surgery and lymph node removal. I’m healing well and waiting for the treatment plan for chemo and radiotherapy. TBH I’m still in shock as I’ve always been very fit and athletic, I found a lump under my arm quite by chance, the tiny lumps in my breast grew quickly between biopsy and surgery (4cm) plus there were 9 nodes infected. I feel very lucky that it was caught so fast but am now struggling to deal with the aftermath of such extensive surgery, I have a scar hip to hip which is doing well but my reconstructed breast/ armpit and new belly button are all uncomfortable and I feel I’ll never get back to my pre surgery fitness. I’ve come to the forum to seek out advice and support x
Hi Skatergirl 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).
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 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.
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.
