Feeling extremely sad today. Going for pre op and having mastectomy next Monday. Anyone had a skin sparing mastectomy? How was recovery? Is it normal to cry so much with cancer diagnosis?
I dont have the same cancer as you but I can definitely say its normal to cry. Your weeks are filled with hospital appointments, you've new information to take in and lots of unknowns ahead.
I would advise you to talk to someone you can trust. Just to off load your fears and worries. If you wake during the night try writing things down. It may help. I find prayer and faith helps to keep me going.
I start my 2nd batch of chemo this week as the 1st batch last year wasn't as effective as expected.
I understand how you feel. I’m waiting to start chemo next week. last weekend it suddenly hit me and I cried the whole weekend. any phone calls or text messages, I just burst out crying. That’s the lowest I’ve ever felt. was feeling of hiding in a corner so that I don’t have to face all the side effects of chemo.
In fairness the chemo was easier to recover from than my surgery. Though it was mega - full bowel removed, illestomy or stoma bag attached and my butt seem up!! Then had to stab myself for weeks with those stupid anti clotting injections.
The 1st chemo left me very tired but honestly just rest when you need too. They give u meds for sickness and diarrhoea. Just keep your fluids up and eat as much as you can when you can. The chemo doesn't always cause weight loss as you're that knackered you'll become a couch potato.
Plus I was on oxyplatin which reacts to the cold, I was bundled up like an Eskimo and it 20C outside. Any drop in temp would cause my lips to tingle.
This time I'll not have a reaction to the cold but higher chance I'll lose my hair. Small price to pay if I'm still here in 10yrs time.
Just remember, it may seem like your on you're on but you're not.
When having chemo, bring supplies to help pass the time. Books, ipad - download iplayer or itvx etc and bring ear phones so you can binge watch TV. Some snacks/food should also be packed as chemo can last for hours.
The other thing I've done is kept a journal, writing as much medical info, personal feelings as well as who came to visit. Kinda helps me keep track of everything. Another option is to get a prayers journal, or daily devotional if you believe in God. If not, I hope I've not offended you. Faith keeps me strong.
Praying your chemo works and that you manage the side effects - remember not everyone gets them all. Stay strong.
It is perfectly normal to cry copiously after receiving a cancer diagnosis. This will stop in time, but it is a good for reducing shock and anxiety in the early stages. I am sure that you will be glad to get your surgery behind you next week.
I had a lumpectomy in 2010 and a double mastectomy in 2011. Surprisingly, I found it easier to recover following the mastectomies than the lumpectomy. I did find it handy to have clothing which closed at the front for both day and night time wear. This saved me from having to lift clothing over my head and was handier when any doctor or nurse wanted to examine my breasts.
I shall be thinking of you next Monday and hope that all goes well. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on, We are always here for you.
