Numb

I was diagnosed with breast cancer today,can't even believe I've just wrote that statement.

I'm 42yrs old and a single parent and absolutely petrified of what will be.It all happened within a space of 4hrs and my head is still spinning.

I have a friend who is battling with breast cancer and I'm in awe of how she is coping with 2 young children and a husband who left her during chemo. I only hope I can show half the strength she fights this evil disses with.

  • Dottie, I am so sorry to read this but you know you will surprise yourself how strong you can be once you start your treatment.  There is so much that can be done today that you have every reason to feel optimistic about the future.  My best wishes to you and please come back and let us know how you are getting on.

  • Thank you I'm sure I will be back!!

  • Hi Dottie, I am so sorry to see the reason you are here but you have come to the right place for help, advice and friendly voices. Everyone on this site has been there one way or another and you wll get through it, I promise. The shock of being given such news is devastating and I know you can't see past that just yet but, as Pauline has said, you can and will get there. Try to focus on the next step and not to think too far ahead. I know.this is easy to say and almost impossible to do but dealing with things bit by bit will make the process a little more bearable for you. I was in this same place in February and know how difficult it is to get your head around it all but take strength from your friends, family and everyone here. Feel free to rant, rave and generally misbehave, we'll all be thinking of you... Take care  Sue x

     

  • So very sorry to see the reason you are on this site Dottie, but please believe me when I say that things will get better and the fear and panic will eventually get to a more manageable state.   I am only a few days ahead of you on this journey, and fear and terror I understand so well, but I saw my consultant yesterday (after 12 days of sheer terror) and now there is a structure to the treatment and a plan, I feel so very much calmer and have confidence I can take this in my stride.  There is so much help and support for you on this site, do take full advantage as the advice you will be given comes from experience and the heart.   I don't know where inner strength comes from, but truly, it is there for you.

    keep in touch my friend, all our best wishes and hopes to you and many hugs xx

  • Thank you purplelily and susu.

    Today has been the worst day as some of the numbness has gone and in return the realisation I have breast cancer and it's not a dream. I'm in panic mode now and need to take hold of myself occasional before I freak out. Trying to go about as normal is a breeze until that jolt of reality slaps you down again. Do I tell that person to I tell this person? I want everyone to know! I want nobody to know! And so many questions.

  • Hi Dottie,

    Sorry you are having a bad day. It is pefectly natural for you to be having all sorts of different emotions and wondering about who to tell what to and how to go about it. Telling people seems to make it all that more real doesn't it but, while you may think you are not ready for that yet, by sharing your fears and worries with chosen family & freinds you will find the burden will lift slightly and the support they will give you will be incredibly comforting. You are not alone, the lovely people here are also behind you every step of the way. Take care xx

  • Hi

    ​I am sorry to hear your diagnosis .It is so surreal at first isn't it ? I was diagnosed two months ago and am recovering from a mastectomy at the moment. My chemo starts in June.

    ​I know you are scared x It wouldn't be a normal reaction if you weren't but have faith . Thing do get better and actually I have a much more positive attitude to my life now than before. I have been overwhelmed by peoples kindness and support . surround yourself with friends and family. Keep talking and get support from places like this forum . You will improve everyday Take care xx

  • Thanks gillyd,

    its the not knowing that I fear most and having a 7yr old intensifies everything. I find out on Friday what the next step is but I've already been told I will have surgery and radiotherapy but depending on the biopsy report is to whether I have chemo or not.

    trying to feel positive is a big struggle as I am an emotional person.

    I hope all goes well with your chemo and your outlook is good x

  • Hi purplelily, just wondering how your getting on?? Hope your still feeling calm and confident. I've had some really good days but some major meltdowns too. Hope all is well xx

  • Hi gillyd, I recall you were starting chemo this month. Just to wish you luck and strength xx