Surgery and gardening

Hi luloo2024,

I had my lumpectomy and sentinels removed in June. Whilst I didn't have much pain mostly discomfort I felt fir enough to resume normal household chores and driving after a few weeks as advised. However you sound as if you do a lot of heavy manual work. I think you need to listen to your body and your mind.

The anxiety and fear were as bad as the physical side for me. Everyone is different some people want to work throughout their treatment and are fit enough to do so whilst others aren't.

I wish you well in your recovery. Listen to your body and be kind to yourself xx

Hi LuLoo2024 welcome to the  forum. No you will not be able to do all that manual work until about 4 or 6 weeks after surgery. You MUST at all times after surgery wear gloves when gardening and try not to get any cuts or scratches as this  can set up Lymphoedema after the Lymph nodes have been removed. 

Hi Luloo2024

I’m not a gardener but love the gym which involves lifting  and strenuous activity like you do in your job. I was a little anxious when I went back after a few weeks but read it was okay so long as starting light and building back up gradually (I also checked with my breast care team it was okay). After a couple of months of no problems the worry subsided and I now lift weights regularly. If anything, the whole cancer experience has made me more determined to build my strength and fitness to better than it was before. Take it steady, try not to do too much too soon, listen to your body and your doctors, but I genuinely believe getting back to normal life and physical activity if possible is key to moving forward.

Best of luck with everything. x

Hi, I understand your concern as I am freelancer with physical job, too. I had my op in Aug and took 2 weeks off, but had a 2nd op early Sept and had  work booked the following week which I did not cancel, but I had to ask people to help me carry my bags. 

Between the ops I went on a 2day walk with friends (20miles) but did not carry anything heavy and felt fine. I did also drive a few days after both ops, but speed bumps hurt - go very slowly over them, otherwise fine ! 
I would take 2 weeks off and make sure you wear your surgical bra at all times and no heavy lifting for 4 weeks. After that you should feel fine. Good luck!