Single Mastectomy - coping strategies please!

Hi Jo. I've just had a single mastectomy on 15 August with no reconstruction. I'm 44 and I've got an 18 month old. I didn't feel that I could do the reconstruction at this time with the long recovery period and I've got other health issues that may affect surgery. 

I was in tears when I was diagnosed as I was distraught at the thought of losing my breast and didn't know how to cope with it at all. I was devastated that my body confidence would be affected, didn't know what to wear post surgery and I was very anxious about it.

I also didn't want the op to stop me doing things like swimming as I have a little boy.

Post op, I was pleased with everything. I'm still glad that I haven't gone for reconstruction. I haven’t even used the Softie provided by the BCN. I've gone flat on occasions when going out and wore a loose shirt or hoodie and it's not even that noticeable. I'm glad now to be approaching winter and I can wear a loose jumper etc for the next few months whilst I figure out my clothing choice. 

I'm more surprised by my attitude and confidence as I really thought I would struggle with this. I'm not repulsed when I look at my body and consider that I'm brave to have gone through this. 

I'm still figuring some things out but on the whole feel good about it now. 

Please let me know if I can help you at all and wish8ng you good luck and best wishes for everything. X

Hi Jo. Mine is booked for Thursday, I'm having immediate reconstruction. I'm feeling similar to you right now  x