Any tips - newly diagnosed with breast cancer

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Been diagnosed with breast cancer, doctor also did biopsy of sone of my Lymph nodes as these looked swelling so will know more about definitive diagnosis once this is back but have been told chemotherapy will be starting very soon. Im absolutely heartbroken by this Cry

Trying to act practically whilst I’m still feeling ‘normal’ just want to start preparing for what I need to do. Anyone got any ideas of what to add to my list, so far I’ve got:

  • Book dental check up
  • Buy zip up hoodies and buttoned up pjs
  • Get fabric headband (as planning to cold cap) - might need fluffy socks, blankets, anything to keep warm 
  • Look into benefit entitlement and work HR policies 
  • Think about how & when to share diagnosis with family & friends & work colleagues 
  • Check - special bras needed?

Any suggestions are much appreciated x

  • Your list is great and a really good plan. Apologies if anything i think of is trivial. Firstly, sending love and hugs. Now, add snacks to that list! Creature comforts and those small feel good moments are essential. Crisps and bacon for me - no shame! Also, distractions. I can't focus enough to read a book whilst on chemo but I have plenty of puzzle books to keep me going. A hot water bottle for comfort and something to hug (other then the dog and husband). And finally, an appointment buddy. I had so many kind offers of help but hubby refuses to miss a single appointment and although I really feel for him going through this with me, it helps him to feel useful and it means that I have a wing man who can update others when I'm sometimes overwhelmed from the constant check-ins from family and friends. 

  • Hi, it's a scary time, but being practical can really help and you've made a good start.   For me, focus on the things you can control (what to eat, exercise, telling people) as there is so much out of your control, this helped me mentally.

    On the practical side, wear leggings for chemo, one arm will be out of action and trying to do up zips with one hand when you go to the loo is tricky.  Front fastening bras for after surgery are a good idea, also crop top style ones are useful. I blogged and created this one about chemo, maybe it helps. Chemo blog

    I don't know what you do for work, and how you feel about it, but some people are able to make flexible arrangements and continue working.  Personally this was a life saver for me, but it's not the same for everyone.

    Similarly telling people. I was very open from the start, but that does mean a lot of conversations and not very one is up for that.  I sometimes used group texts and I didn’t feel obliged to answer everyone immediately. People always mean well, but it's difficult.

    Hope this helps, best of luck with your treatment

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