Struggling to like my body since breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy this year. Anyone else feel like this ?
Struggling to like my body since breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy this year. Anyone else feel like this ?
Hello ozzyt
You're not alone in experiencing struggles with how you feel about your body following treatment for cancer. Many of our members will have had similar experiences after their journey and hopefully they will post to share their stories with you soon.
I think that for many people there are lots of different reasons why they struggle with changes to their bodies. For some, it will be visible changes such as scars that are a problem. For others it may be the feeling that the body they had always felt so confident and comfortable in has in some way let them down. And for others, it may be that they feel this way for a whole host of reasons. I think that the key thing though is to talk to someone about how you're feeling and work out how you can move forward.
If there is a Maggie's centre local to you then I'd encourage you to have a look at their website and get in touch to see what support services may be available. I'd also recommend having a look at the Breast Cancer Now information about their Moving Forwards course and the support they offer to women who have been through treatment for breast cancer. It's also worth chatting with your breast care nurse to see what psychological support options may be available in your area.
In the meantime, be kind to yourself Ozzyt. You have been through a lot over the past few months and it will take time to process all that's happened.
Best wishes,
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator
I lost two and a half stone and since diagnosed I put on a stone. Clothes still fit but have got a few new tops that are a bit baggier. Also boobs look different. I've recently got new bras which help make them look a bit more normal. I wasn't always a confident person with my body until I lost weight. I am trying to loose some weight. But not finding it easy. I'm back to my normal dog walking but not yet ready to go back to the gym Friends say I'm still looking good and they wish I could see what they see. But I tell them I can't.
I know I will one day. I have a fantastic group of friends who are all very supportive. I know they love me as I am
just wish I could at the moment xxx