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Struggling after cancer

Jinny123
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I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March. I had no idea and it was diagnosed after a mammogram.

In four weeks I had the operation to remove the lump and lymph nodes. The operation went well. I started radiotherapy in August.

I am awaiting my 3 month appointment to be signed off from oncology.

I'mreally strugling now, im feeling numb and tearful most of the time. I lose my temper and feel like I'm siting with a ticking time bomb inside me and I'm just waiting for it to go off.

I feel like I have to do all the things I want to do now because time is against me which hopefully it isn't  but i dont know. i really hoped I would live to quite an old age but that has now been put into doubt with my diagnosis.

My husband had cancer last year and he is in remission. He is loving but doesn't understand why I feel this way 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    Moving forward after cancer treatment is a process and it can feel very uncertain and overwhelming at times.

    Many people worry about the cancer coming back and this is a very natural thought process to go through. It can be triggered by follow up scans or appointments but for some people this fear and anxiety is with them every day and it really can affect a persons quality of life. Maggie's has some information about this on their website.

    When these worries affect someone's everyday living it is important to get the support you need to help you through and to find some coping strategies to manage these thoughts and feelings.

    The NHS's  Every Mind Matters has some resources to help people deal with change and uncertainty that may be useful to take a look at. If you feel you need some professional help then speak with your GP who can refer you for counselling.

    Some patients also find moving forward groups and courses run within cancer support centres such as Breast Cancer Now, Macmillan or Maggie's centres helpful to look forward and try and regain a sense of normality. Macmillan and other cancer support centres attached to hospitals run these types of courses as well. 

    I hope this is helpful. Give us a ring if you would like 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

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