Newbie, Xmas diagnosis

Hi  and a very warm welcome to the forum. Sorry that you find yourself here but I hope that the friendship and shared experiences here will help you to feel less scared and definitely not alone. 

Re chemo, there’s a great monthly thread in the Diagnosis and Treatments section, near the top. It’s a busy thread with tips and suggestions, always people here on the chemo train with you. There’s also a very busy thread called ‘Awake’ in the Chat section, a great mix of people there, old hands and newbies, plenty of serious support but also fun and banter. 

Just wanted to pick up on something you said,,,,, you most definitely did not ruin your family’s Christmas!! The 2 big C’s did that, not you. It’s a really common theme here that we all tend to take responsibility for our nearest and dearest’s feelings and emotions about our cancer, as if having it wasn’t already utterly overwhelming! It’s a natural tendency but please try also to look after yourself. Harder in Covid times but don’t be too proud to accept practical help that is offered, obviously if Covid-safe to do so. Now there’s a phrase I didn’t know I’d ever use..... such strange times. 

Re people knowing, we’re all different but I actually felt it was a relief once most people knew. But it’s your business if you don’t want the wider work community to know. 

Sending love and a big virtual hug, and will be thinking of you on Thursday. Often the unknown is much worse than the actual experience so I’m hoping that you feel ‘better’ once it’s started. Keep posting, ask questions, rant and rave if you need to, and let us know how it goes on Thursday. HFxx

Hi

Another warm welcome to the online community from me. 

Today would have been your first chemo - hope it's being kind to you so far, if not, don't be afraid to call them and get some help.

It's completely up to you who you do and don't tell and we are always here to stop you feeling alone if you're not keen on talking to your friends and family about it. As HappyFeet1 said, we do tend to take a lot of the burden onto ourselves and it's important to be kind to yourself as well.

Here is link to the January breast cancer chemo thread - we tend to refresh once a month. it's a great place to connect with others going through treatment and share your experiences and tips.

Do let us know how you are getting on and feel free to let off steam to us - it's what we are here for.

Sending virtual hugs

R