Brachytherapy - done and dusted! My thanks to our wonderful NHS!

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Just returned after my final treatment which seemed even quicker than the other two. I thanked the nurses who have been brilliant, both supportive and sympathetic. I was feeling very tearful, emotions really took over. I got back to the car and sat there sobbing for about 10 minutes - got a few strange looks from passers-by but suppose that's normal in a hospital car park.

Previously I'd planned to celebrate by visiting Dunelm Mill (closed due to new lockdown!) or even having a McDonalds, (where I live is very rural and the nearest McDonalds is a 25 mile round trip! Just once a year suffices) Anyway, I sat in the car until I stopped crying then headed home. 

Hubby can't understand why I'm an emotional wreck - no change there - he can be as emotional as a plank sometimes!

Anyway, I'll have a chat with my consultant in a couple of weeks to give feedback on Brachytherapy and any side effects. Then I'll see him in 3 months time. I did ask if at that point I have a scan, after all how can you tell if it's come back? You don't have blood or urine tests to reveal anything with endometrial cancer. I think I'll have a scan at the 6 month stage.  I've been told to look out for swelling of the ankles. If they swell and don't go down after a couple of days it could indicate a problem with the lymph glands.

Brachytherapy is meant to be the "Belt and Braces" solution to prevent spread of the malignant cells so fingers crossed, that's the conclusion of my situation with Endometrial Cancer except for check-ups every 3 months. It's a journey I never thought I'd make, no history of cancer in my family, but lots of highs and lows, although short term along the way.

I first talked to my GP on 3rd June about my PMB and here I am, just 5 months later free of a cancer I'd no idea was growing in me and minus a womb and other bits. I can't praise our NHS enough for all their brilliant care and support. Also all the friends I've made on this site for listening.

I'm ranting and blubbing again, bear with me!

Viv, you might feel like this tomorrow - hope your last session goes well! 

Hugs to you all, Barb xx

  • Hi Mrs BJH,

    Glad to hear you have finished treatment.

    I well remember how I felt when told I needed no more treatment after the hysterectomy. I had to walk in fresh air and fields, then we had a pub lunch!!! Difficult to do these days!  xxxxx

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hello Mrs BJH,

    Well done on ending that part of your journey and glad to hear you ok.

    Xx

  • Hello Barb,

    Thanks for sharing your journey with us - my partner asked me to mention how touched he was by what you had to say today! Glad you've reached the end of this treatment, and hope all future check-ups are clear. Nothing wrong at all with showing your emotions: this has been a very traumatic experience for you, and for all of us, in dealing with the little beggar.

    Enjoy your vibrator, and look forward to hearing from you again,
    Hugs Dx

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi Barb,

    Well done on completing the "Rollercoaster Ride" ! Nothing wrong with letting go with those emotions I did it many times myself, I hope now you can relax a bit & get back to normality & start enjoying life again. Sending Love & Hugs HuggingHugging Justine x

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi Barb, So very pleased for you that your rollercoaster ride is over, and you can get back to normality, at least as normal as things can get during lockdown.  What is it with some people? Those tears are probably all the stress and tension that built up over the journey and the relief that it’s all over. You’re entitled to have a good wee bubble. I’m looking forward to the day I can get off this rollercoaster but at present I think my carriage is stuck Grin. You enjoy your life now Barb.

    Take Care

    AngieRaising hand tone1

  • Hi Dreamweaver.

    Thank you for your message especially the bit about your partner being touched. I don't think mine has ever shown much interest in what I read out - actually he says I'm obsessed with this forum. He can't seem to understand how much support I've received from it.

    Anyway, stay safe, how's the tummy?

    Big hugs, Barb 


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  • Hi Angie

    Thanks for your good wishes. Hope you get your date very soon. Stay in touch!

    Big hugs, Barb xxHugging


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  • ah Barb, it’s good to get it out. I think when treatment ends we sort of go what the hells just happened and i think this is when all our emotions hit more because before it was worry over what is next, treatment etc. 

    Anyway end of treatment fireworks to you

    Big hugs

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  • Your hubby needs to know that this forum's a lifesaver for so many of us - and your input has been a great source of encouragement to me! I hope you go from strength to strength, and keep enjoying the walks with your doggies. My tummy continues to flop about -  hopefully will get back into shape when I resume yoga. Am 2 weeks' post-op exacty today so a while to go yet :-)

    All best,
    Dx

  • Thank you Dreamweaver I'm glad to hear that. Hope you continue to make steady progress.

    Big hugs, Barb xx


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    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

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