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Angry and Sad post breast surgery

Mummymartin
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I had wide excision 3rd December and returned to full time managers job on 2nd January. Was ok for first 2 days but 8 days in I find myself either angry, stressed or thoroughly cheesed off! I am awaiting radiotherapy and hormone therapy with possible chemo if oncotype test suggest I should. People are telling me I came back to work too early-did I? I haven’t digested the cancer situation and feel it’s just another plate to spin in life. I can’t seem to find the positive and am annoyed with myself as there are people so much worse off than me 

  • I'm sorry to hear about the complex range of emotions you've been contending with since returning to work Mummymartin.

    Our members know how difficult this transition can be, so you are not alone in feeling this way, and I'm sure our members will be along soon to offer some support and advice.

    If it would help to talk things through with our cancer nurses, they're available Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m on 0808 800 4040. They're really easy to talk to and will do all they can to support you at this time.

    In the meantime, be kind to yourself Mummymartin. You've been through a lot and it will take some time to process everything that has happened. If you think you have returned to work a bit too soon then maybe you could discuss this further with your GP and/or medical team and get their thoughts and advice.

    We're here for you Mummymartin, and sending you all our support.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Blimey! I think you're doing amazing!

    You need to allow yourself time to heal and process this whole thing.  Mine was 5 years ago, some of the treatment floored me but I found it better to be busy for my mental health.

    Take care of yourself.  There's always plenty of us on these site to help along the way.

    Best wishes x

  • Offline in reply to MilosMum

    Thank you for your message. My head is telling me I’ve been through something trivial but people I know still look mortified when I tell them I have cancer. Maybe I’m underestimating  what I’ve been through. I’m trying to give myself some slack but also aware I need to get healthier  both physically and mentally for the next part of treatment. I am glad you are doing well 5 years on 

  • Offline in reply to Mummymartin

    Hi friend, 

    I think you need time to absorb what you have already experienced and to prepare for what comes next. The work environment is stressful enough without the added pressures of a recent life changing event especially if you have additional management responsibility.

    Don't be hard on yourself and if you've gone back too soon speak to your GP and think about a phased return or time off if needed. 

    Take care of your mental health as your physical health has some way to go.xxx

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