A Lumpectomy Or Mastectomy: Personal Story
In May 2016 I had a routine Mammogram at the mobile unit nearest to my home. In a little over a week, I was invited to Worthing Hospital for a follow up appointment. At this point I had another mammogram, followed by an Ultrasound and then I had a Biopsy. Two weeks later I was told that I had Breast Cancer. I saw the...
View MoreWhat have been some of the key things you have struggled with in the aftermath of your lumpectomy or mastectomy?
For me, three years down the line, I still get pains which come and eventually go? I have had them looked at by the surgeon, and at the moment I am told that as my cancer was very deep, although only a lumpectomy, it may take years for everything to settle down. Also, my chemotherapy/radiotherapy has hastened me getting osteoporosis of the spine, due to the radiotherapy. There are some drugs that I can't now have for the osteoporosis. I am extremely sensitive to the sun, and the heat, and my digestion isn't good.
What would you want others to know about your journey?
Follow the advice, and "Go with the flow", if something is not right then follow your instincts. I watch for a few days, then if it doesn't improve I get it checked. I don't always have the stamina. I have days when I really have to push myself, but other days that I just have to take things easy.
If you could give advice to someone newly diagnosed with breast cancer, what would you tell them?
Yes it is frightening, particularly when you live alone, but I have found that the medics, etc. can be helpful. So can other people who have gone through "The Journey." Everybody handles things in their own way, some friends can't cope with your diagnosis, some of you will want to keep it to yourselves, others like me wanted everyone around me to know! If people tell you that you will be alright, yes you may be, don't over tire yourself trying to be "normal" and listen to your body.
