Diagonised 17th October

Hi there, thank for your post. I thought I'd pop you a quick reply as I can see you're up late.

Firstly, well done on getting through to the other side of chemotherapy!

I had a similar treatment regime starting in April last year. But I had surgery first, then chemotherapy. 

I had a mastectomy as a day patient. The surgery is done under general anaesthetic. I had some discomfort afterwards, especially with getting comfortable at night. It definitely helped to sleep propped up to an almost seated position. 

I was able to go for daily walks from the day after my surgery. After about two weeks, I was more 'myself'. But I would say it took me about six weeks to be 'fully' physically comfortable. 

Things I found helpful:

1. Wedge pillow for sleeping - I got mine from Amazon
2. Front opening bras - I bought many! but the one I found most comfortable was one from Sainsbury's,  about £10
3. Front opening clothing and nightwear 
4. Doing the recommended exercises religiously,  it really helped with mobility and feeling strong
5. A small crossbody bag to keep the drain bottle in,  helped to be able to move around freely, both at home and outside
6. Daily walks felt really beneficial,  physically and mentally

That's all I can think of for now, I hope it helps but you're welcome to ask any questions. 

Wishing you well with your surgery and further treatment. 

Sending all the hugs, Shaka

PS. Just to say, I believe it's absolutely normal to feel confused and alone when on this path. 

You have just come through 5months of chemotherapy,  a gruelling task!  And it sounds like you had a tough time with it. I had quite an emotional dip at the end of my chemotherapy. It takes some time to process things. We are dealing with a lot!

Be gentle with yourself and use this forum.  Many here have been where you/we are and can offer support and information. 

Take good care, Shaka 

Thank you! Yeah it’s a bad sleep night tonight  I’ve already purchased front opening bras and pjs - I went through my wardrobe and realised I owned  nothing that I could slip into so  brought bits each month since October . Pillows didn’t think off but now I wil 

I really appreciate all the advise 

Hi

I had a very similar diagnosis at a similar time but I’m ~10 years older. However I also had my surgery first; I have just finished the chemo and am in my week of radiotherapy.

Personally I’d say you’ve got through by far the worst part of the treatment - ie the chemo - so be proud of yourself for having coped with that. Let’s face it, we know it’s in our best interests but it’s not a lot of fun!!

For me the surgery was pretty straightforward. I had a WLE and therapeutic mammoplasty. I stayed in hospital one night and only needed paracetamol once I’d left hospital. I tried really hard with the healthy eating and daily walk and it really helped 

Hang in there. You’ll get all the treatment finished and be relieved it’s all done