Hello and thanks for your post

Your mum may need to have radiotherapy after her mastectomy if there is a risk of the cancer coming back. Her doctor may suggest she has it if the cancer is large, cancer cells are seen close to the removed breast tissue, or if she has cancer cells in the lymph nodes in the armpit (axilla). You can read more about this here. 

The stage and grade of a cancer describes its size and if it has spread, so the earlier the stage and grade of cancer the better the overall outcome.

People often ask what more can they do to support their parent going through cancer treatment. But talking and listening and being there when you can are what most people find useful. Sometimes it can be better to ask your mum what she would find most helpful for you to do for her. For example, she may be really appreciative you keeping in touch by phone or text. If you live close by she might appreciate you doing some practical things for her such as doing some light housework, or getting shopping in, or preparing meals for her, or even taking her to and from her hospital appointments when you can. You can offer to do one or two of these things but do bear in mind we can only do what someone will allow us to do.

We have some information on our website about cancer and emotions and tips for way of coping which you can read at this link.

I hope this is of some use. Give us a ring if you want to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Celene