Just diagnosed

Hi Newjourney. I'm also reeling from recent diagnosis and have little wisdom to offer other than you're not alone. I've had to stop the pill which controlled my very bad PMS and that is really adding to the already difficult time. I'd speak to your nurse / team about chemo and ice caps to help prevent hair loss. I know one woman it worked well for, but I think it depends on type of chemo and can vary between people. Hoping you find comfort here 

BOF x

Hi BOF

So scary isn’t it. I’ve got booklets etc re before/after surgery but every time I pick them up to read I cry. I’ve had to stop all HRT so like your pms, all the horrid symptoms are returning. I’m terrified it’s spread as they know it’s in my lymph node so removing them all on Weds. I haven’t had symptoms or felt unwell but this week I’m exhausted and my armpit/arm aches - I’m trying not to overthink everything but it’s so hard. Just want to cry all the time. I’m so sorry you’re on this journey too, It’s  a club we don’t really want to be a member of. Bigs hug to you too xxx

Hi NewJourney  and BoxOfFrogs , just wanted to send love and big hugs to you both. It’s a horrible limbo stage, waiting for results and treatments. Sometimes it feels less overwhelming once treatment starts as at least you’re on the way to coming out the other end, whatever that may involve. This is definitely a club I didn’t want to join but I’ve found lots of support and shared experiences here. And I’m still rattling around the site 6 years post diagnosis! Love and big virtual hugs, HFxx

Hi, 

I'm 7 months down the line after lumpectomy and lymph nodes removed and it's been a rollercoaster but it's beginning to feel like I can see the light at the end of the tunnel now.  I agree that the worst part is the waiting for results. I've found keeping a journal has really helped me to see my progress and keep a check on the side effects. Also some sort of mindfulness activity to take your focus on to something else. I started doing diamond painting during lockdown and that's been my go to activity whenever I feel overwhelmed. 

The forums are brilliant here too. I'm more of a lurker usually. 

Hope your treatment goes well. xx

Ah thank you. I had surgery yesterday so feel like I’ve had a good kicking today!. Armpit still numb to touch tho .

Hopefully results in a few weeks . Hoping for clear margins as if I need to go back in they’ll need to reconstruct as I’m small busted, so not much tissue to play with. Was Heper2 negative so that was good.

Did you have to go down the chemo route? 
Hope you’re on the mend finally. It’s all so scary isn’t it. I thought Cancer was something that happens to other people , not me.lol 

It's a worrying and scary time but there's so much support out there. Your team will always be there for advice and support and all of the cancer charities are amazing. 

Fingers crossed for you to have good results. Make sure you get plenty of rest and lots of help for the first few weeks. It's essential that you build yourself back up now. 

I'm post menopausal so didn't need chemotherapy only radiotherapy and the oncotype DX score came back really low. I still have some numbness under my armpit but that's a small price to pay. We're still here and that's what's important.

Wishing you a speedy recovery and good results. x