Hi everyone
I’m 53 F and had a recent diagnosis. It feels really strange and not even sure why I’m posting here as I know I’m lucky
I had some abnormal bleeding while on HRT and Mirena and because I had private health insurance ( England) everything moved quickly
It went from possible hormone imbalance in July to the discovery of an ovarian cyst in August to uterine cancer in September
I went in for total hysterectomy with abdominal vertical incision in early October- the cyst turned out to be 30x25x15 cm ( way bigger than they thought on scans) plus bowel growths which my surgeon was very concerned about and total hysterectomy and appendectomy plus lymph node removal
the surgery went well and pathology has come back with grade 1A for both cancers in the ovary and uterus and no spread any where else - the bowel stuff was just deep stage 4 endometriosis
so no further surgery needed and I know this is good news but this all feels crazy and a whirlwind and although I am happy and relieved I also feel completely blindsided and a bit overwhelmed
Anyone with similar situation with advice on how to cope with the emotional toll x
Hi Ger72
Welcome to the group.
I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis and hope that you are recovering ok.
I can remember my cancer journey started quickly and everything happened so fast. For me it wasn't until after treatment finished that I had time to take stock and begin to process everything that had happened.
You have had major surgery and it can take time to recover. I remember at times feeling overwhelmed and emotional. It is good news that you do not need any further treatment. Recovery takes time both physically and mentally. At a month post op I was starting to feel a bit more like myself but still needed plenty of rest. Walking helped me and also catching up with friends and family when I felt up to it. I tried to keep to a regular routine where I was up to it- bedtimes, meals etc and that helped. I also tried to eat well where I could.
We do have the Support Line available from 8am-8pm everyday and if it would help to talk things through, please do give them a call. They can also have a look to see if there is any support local to you that may help. Some people find that some form of counselling can help and many hospitals do Life after cancer courses.
It sounds like what you are feeling at the moment is very normal given the whirlwind of cancer. Give yourself time, rest when needed and hopefully you will start feeling better soon.
Jane
