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Post cancer recovery

Saga
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Hello

I am five months on from completing treatment which involved lumpectomy,lymph node clearance,chemotherapy and radiotherapy and I was very lucky to be told that the breast cancer that I was diagnosed with was gone.What I am finding is that I'm struggling now with a whole host of feelings and emotions as well as dealing with physical side effects including lymphoidema. I felt that my treatment and the care I received was really good and have no concerns regarding this and I am truly grateful and thankful that I am well again.

I am finding it difficult to cope with work although some days are better than others but not sure how to deal with all the feelings and emotions that I am experiencing now      and wonder how others have coped with the aftermath.i really want to talk about it but feel that people don't Really Want to and I feel that I just have to get onwiththings even though I still don't feel 100 percent and can't get back up to speed.im thinking about getting some counselling for this and wonder where people have found help for this.Many thanks.

 

 

 

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    Hi Saga,

    First of all welcome to this great forum. Its not surprising you are feeling like you  are. Its a well known fact that a lot of people feel like you, after finnishing treatment. You have had several months of regular visits to the hospital for tests, treatment and then getting the results so it has kept you very busy. When treatment has ended, a lot of people feel vunerable as they are only seeing people for check ups now. Plus the fact you now have time to think more now and realize what you have undergone. It does take time to overcome these feelings but you will I promise.

    You say you want to talk about things but feel others dont want to; well thats the beauty of this forum. For most people on here have had experiance of cancer and know what a toll it takes on us  so will be more sympathetic and understanding. It's often said, unless you have been through it yourself, you dont have a true understanding and thats so true.

    A lot of people say that just by the simple act of writing their feelings down on here helps. I am sure you will soon start to feel more like your old self. Dont be too hard on yourself for you have been through a lot.

    Sending kind thoughts and best wishes your way, Brian.

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    Hi, I have been to counselling and it did help me to talk.  I went to a cancer charity called Helen Rollason.  It may be worth seeing if there is one in your area.  I also went on a course run by Macmillan nurses called Hope.  It is also worth seeing if there is one running in your area.  You would find lots of people who would understand how you are feeling and will empathise with what is happening to you.

  • Offline in reply to woodworm

    Hi Brian

    Thankyou for your reply and kind reassurance.Its so hard because I just want to let off steam about my feelings and yet don't want to keep going on at family and friends. I'm sure it does get easier and time will be a healer but it was such an awful experience I guess I just have to take each day one by one.

  • Offline in reply to Pauline4

    Hi

    Thankyou that is helpful.I just need to talk about it and as Brian has said people don't really understand unless they have been through it themselves.Its like joining an elite club that no one wants to be a member of. I will look into your suggestions Thankyou .

  • Offline in reply to Saga

    Hi there, just to add to the great advice Brian & Pauline have already given you, Breast Cancer Care run courses at local hospitals called Moving Forward. Held once a week for four weeks they cover eight different topics relating to both the physical and emotional issues experienced after breast cancer treatment.  Having had to cancel in November I am currently waiting for details of one at another hospital in my area for Feb/Mar time. Hope this helps. Take care Sue x

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