Hi, I was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer last week. Obviously it was not the news I wanted to hear, especially at this time of year. I have decided not to tell my family until after the holidays, there is no point in impacting everyone else’s Christmas, as this won’t change the outcome. I have started taking Letrozole, and so far no significant side effects. I am continuing to try and do all the things I enjoy including running, cycling and long walks with the dog. I know that after surgery, I may not feel like training, but all the time I can, I will. I’m strong, fit for age and determined to beat this. I am hugely grateful to everyone at the Jarvis Centre, Guildford and the Jasmine Suite, Ashford Hospital for their care and sensitivity. I’ll do my bit by doing what I’m told (not my default setting) and harnessing the power of positivity.
Hello Jules B - I am sorry you find yourself here and again at this time of the year - although no time of the year is right.
I do believe your head will be full of everything and anything about this - what you won't have in your head ..... is in a way you have gone though the worst part - the hearing of the diagnosis .... now it all moves forward, you are in a place that none of us like or felt there was any way back from.... that was at the beginning - then you see so much can be done and will be - yes your have a roller coaster of a ride to go through - but you are her now with people that have got on that ride and come out the other side, people that are now friends and truly understand what you and your mind are going through .... any questions ask away and between us I don't think there is much that is not know - in fact I recon we are a very knowledgeable group.
I choose not to tell my dear mum - she is 90 and of the old school - plus I didn't want a daily 'how are you' - I wanted to forget about it whilst in between appointments etc and by not telling I could do this (we are all different) and I totally understand why tell family before Christmas, like you say it won't change anything - the same as worrying won't (so none of this too please) - I know as we all do hearing that 'word' is (I still find it hard to say) is soul destroying - but..... now you know then there is treatment for you.
Be prepared for a wrath of emotion - it's normal - look to Mindfullness app's - two minute breathing exercises, etc, they all help.
And most of all - know we are all here for you - look out for the AWAKE thread - its where we all drop in and out.
Hopefully, this will take you to the AWAKE thread.....
https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/breast-cancer-forum/f/general/128753/awake/1818675
