I’ve just been diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to my spine. I feel like I’m not coping and getting upset all the time. Is there anyone else that has recently been diagnosed with this ?
I'm so sorry to hear that you've recently been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to your spine. It's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed by this news. It's a lot to take on board.
We have a few members here who are living with different stage 4 diagnoses, and I know that they will understand just how difficult this period of adjustment can be. Hopefully some of them will post to share their experiences with you soon.
What has your care team said about treatment options to help manage this? If it would hel pto chat things through with one of our team of nurses, you're most welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, on 0808 800 4040.
We have some information on our website about cancer and mental health, but I also wanted to suggest that if there is an organisation such as Maggie's in your local area, you might reach out to them as well. I know that many of our forum members have found it helpful to talk with someone about their cancer diagnosis, and Maggie's offers many different face-to-face options. If there isn't one locally, then do ask your care team what services are available in your local area. You could also visit the Breast Cancer Now forum who have an area specifically for people living with secondary breast cancer.
Please keep posting here in the Cancer Chat forum, AviMcc, if it helps to have a safe space to put things down in writing, to ask questions or to simply chat with others who understand. We are here for you.
Sending my best wishes, Jenn Cancer Chat moderator
Hi AviMcc I am sorry to hear about your stage 4 diagnosis, it is so scary. I have stage 4 lobular breast cancer spread to my pelvis, spine, ribs and skull. I am on targeted therapy, Ribociclib, exemastane (as it is hormone based) and denosumab injections. I was diagnosed at the end of 2024 so is just coming up to two years and now my cancer is stable. I am happy to chat as on here most days.
Thank you so much for your reply. As it’s been 2 years please can you let me know mentally does it get easier to live with ? Do you have days you manage not to think about it ? Every morning when I wake up it’s my very first thought - my cancer.
