My mum (69) was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer just before Xmas. A routine mammogram picked up the small tumour, the prognosis at the first consultation was positive. Breast conserving surgery then radiotherapy.

she had the surgery first week of Jan, they took a SLNB and we’ve heard nothing since. I thought the biopsy results would be back by now and put our minds at rest. 

sadly she has a lot of other health issues, a serious prolapse bowel, diverticulitis and a haitus hernia so no stranger to aches and pains, only now we have the breast cancer diagnosis I’m feeling very anxious. She’s started saying her hips hurt and she’s been laid up in pain, blaming ‘sleeping funny’ she’s lost a lot of weight since the diagnosis. (Something she’s pleased about!) 

i just keep thinking what if it’s spread to her bones, being in poor health wouldn’t that make her more susceptible? She doesn’t want to ‘trouble’ anyone with her symptoms, after surgery she had terrible diahorrea and upon calling our surgery for help was told she was ‘really using the NHS’ which knocked her sideways. So now she just puts up and shuts up.

perhaps I should advocate for her? I get the feeling she’s in denial now and doesn’t want anyone to talk about it.