Hi, I’m new to all this.

Hi Butterfly3

Glad you've joined the forum as dipping in and out of it was/is helpful to me. This is also my first post. I'm about to have radiotherapy and when I felt emotional and wasn't coping I focused on practical things I could do as they were things I could control. For example when diagnosed I started eating more fruit and veg (my diet wasn't exactly healthy up till then!) as I felt it would help my recovery and my wounds to heal quickly after surgery. I also started the arm exercises and walked as much and as often as I could. The waiting bit is tough, which is where this forum helps as it makes you feel less alone.

Sending you positive vibes and all good wishes.

Elenore

Thanks Eleanore, really appreciate your advice, like you, I have changed my diet, lots more fruit & veg and have cut down on meat and stopped alcohol…….used to love a glass of red!

I’ve been trying to up my fitness, but must admit, I have let myself go a bit, nothing seems to ping back like it did in your twenties.

Good luck with the radiotherapy, stay positive. Please let me know how you get on. Everything is going to be ok.

Thanks again & have a great day x

Hi Butterfly3

Welcome to the forum and sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

What you are feeling is perfectly understandable.  That's the worst part of being diagnosed with cancer the waiting for tests and for things to happen.  Things should start to improve once you've had your operation.

Wishing you the best of luck with your operation.

Best wishes

Daisy53

Hi Daisy53

Thanks for your encouraging words, yes I think it’s the waiting l can’t deal with. One minute I’m fine and then the next l’m overthinking the (bleep! bleep! bleep) out of everything - but I suppose that’s normal? Just trying to keep myself busy, live more and worry less. I know it’s going to be a bit of a rollercoaster, I’ve just got to make sure I hang on!

All the best x

Hi Butterfly3,

so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Everything you have described is totally understandable and I can relate with it all. 
It really is just like being on an emotional rollercoaster. 
I had a lumpectomy last week for my breast cancer. I had 3 lymph nodes taken too for analysis. I am really hoping that they come back clear but my mind and gut say otherwise. I have been to some dark places in my head and as time goes on I am really finding it hard to accept. I did feel so much better after the op, knowing it was out! So I think once you cross that hurdle you will begin on your healing journey. 
It’s the waiting that really drags me down, there is always some test or appointment to wait for and feels like you’re really in limbo a lot of the time. 
I am so sorry i am not providing much comfort but just wanted you to know that you’re not alone and it’s okay to not be okay, it’s valid what you’re feeling. You are going through a lot right now but I know it won’t always be like this. Just remember, you will look back at this time and be able to help someone in the future with their journey. Because you have been there and come out the other side. 

I have found strength online from other women going through the same experience and even met a lady at the hospital who was having the same procedure as me. It really helps to connect with others who truly understand. 
I would definitely use this platform to reach out (as you have) and if you ever have a wobble, don’t think twice. 

Be kind to yourself,

Hugs to you xx

Thank you sooo much, it’s really reassuring to hear from other ladies who are going through or coming out the other end. I hope you get the all clear, I’ve got my fingers crossed for you. 
I’m usually the one who’s great at looking after others, but this is weird, it’s happening to me, so just trying to keep busy and finding things to do to shift my focus. Counting down the days to the operation 

Take care and I hope you have a restful night x