When you've waited 5 months....

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Hi everyone, I was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer at the end of October and finally had the lump removed 3 weeks ago today. Unfortunately since then and following a hysteroscopy I now have a 'mass' in my uterus that's probably a fibroid or polyp that needs to be removed, operation number 2

I've also had my post lumpectomy appointment where I was expecting to hear when my radiotherapy would start but unfortunately I was told there are stage 2 cells still remaining so a further operation required. Then, just to mix things up a little, I got a call later that day advising that samples taken during the op would be sent to America to test my DNA for potential chemotherapy treatment before they take away anymore cells

I won't lie, it's been the hardest 6 months of my life and at the moment I feel like I'm living for my hospital trips and not much else. I'm back to square 1,where I was before I knew the type of cancer, convinced its everywhere and when I feel a new pain/ache the big C is right at the front of my mind. I'm frustrated with the delays, I spent too long putting my life on hold and I am now reaching out via this group and the Macmillan website in the hope that I'll get some 'therapy'. I've become quite antisocial, haven't been to work since my diagnosis because my confidence has reduced so much. I've limited my contact with people to avoid the questions. 

Sorry to moan but I'm feeling pretty frustrated, angry, lonely all mostly at the same time! ....but I know I am pretty lucky in the scheme of things! I have 2 grown up sons at home, wonderful parents and a caring, loving partner. I just wish that I could be a bit 'nicer' when I'm around them and even better get the old me back

So we wait, and hang in there....

  • Sorry to hear all this - it does take time, but you will come out on the other side. My experience was lumpectomy, reexcision (necessary due to surgeon error), sentinal node biopsy, no oncotype test as considered 'low risk' but will always wonder whether that would have reassured me more, radiotherapy, hormone treatment (with its own special side effects), reconstruction coming up soon, (could be a couple of operations) and a 2 week fast track appt for suspicious cervical polyp (isn't being a woman great.) Fortunately, that came back as just a benign poyp with uterus looking normal. One thing I've learned was to put myself first, and to take things easy when I needed to, and to not worry about explaining my moods to others, because they wouldn't have the faintest idea what I was going through. However, it does get better. Others may have different experiences, but time is the best healer. Hope everything goes well with the fibroid.

  • Thank you Louise42, your words of encouragement and advice are much appreciated! I don't feel quite so 'odd' now which brings some relief. I've been told the gynae team have quite the waiting list, likely another 4 weeks before I get results and op not likely for atheist 2 months. Just a bit more waiting.....

    I'm sorry to hear the rough time you've had, and I hope your reconstruction ops go well and successfully!!

    We women have all the fun it seems...I won't mention the dramatic births ending in emergency ops with my two boys, rolls eyes and chuckles

    Take care and bring on the next challenge ....oh, and time to find a new hobby!