Newly diagnosed with breast cancer

I am having a lumpectomy and need a radioactive tracer put in my breast which I'm worried about. Also I'm going to have a blue dye injected into me. I'm a fainter and know I'll pass-out during this procedure.  I'm very anxious. Does anyone have any advice or comfort to give please?

Parents Reply
  • I’m glad you’re feeling able to go back to work. I feel I want to stay home - I just can’t face work and I’m so tired all of the time. For me it’s early days but I think not being able to drive has made me feel quite isolated - even with plenty of family and friends around to come and see me. Maybe it’s a control thing? Good luck with your recovery and please let me know how going back to work is. Do you have the kind of job where you can take it easy a bit?

Children
  • I work for local council in school transport. I have over 100 staff. I can work from home but choose not to as I feel my staff need to see me and they keep me going. I have worked there 7 years so they are my extended family. I have been with them for their health and bad times so I know I can expect the same-not that I’ve told them all why I’ve been off. They know I’ve had medical treatment and a few have had their own cancer journeys so we have bonded over that. Don’t rush work if you don’t need to. My job is a big part of my world but I have to say in last 4 weeks I’ve hardly given it a thought. Take each day as a day you succeeded in just being 

  • I work in a school. They have been really supportive. I’ve told them I’m not going back until at least after February half term so that they’ve been able to sort out a proper supply staff. But I’m worried my doctor won’t sign me off for that long. I just can’t imagine working in that environment feeling physically and mentally vulnerable. 

  • I was signed off initially for 2 weeks then asked for another week and then I was off for Christmas anyway. Yours is a different job so emotions will play a big part to your return. I think you could get 6 week note easily. When I phoned for my fit note they basically asked me how long I would like!! 

  • That’s reassuring thank you. I’ll give the doctor a ring this week. Fingers crossed. X