Hi

My lump was found from a mammogram, and unfortunately it had spread to one lymph node, hence chemo.  It was Lobular stage 2. I was told that I could have a lumpectomy because I had large breasts, and they could reconstruct both of them.  I had one lumpectomy,  the margins were clear, but unfortunately they found that there was  one lymph node affected, and had to operate again.  The scars were noticeable at first, but now they are not too bad.  I suppose they look like I have had a boob job?  I must admit when I was first told, I really wanted a masectomy, I wanted it all gone, but when I calmed down I accepted the lumpectomy. Radiotherapy was not too bad, I often went shopping after, the only way it affected me was a slight pink boob, and quite tired for a short time.

The journey was difficult, both emotional and phisical, but believe me it is very doable.  My hair came back better than ever, much thicker, and I think I learnt a lot about me along the away.  I think I am happier now, because I look forward to every day, and take nothing for granted.  It took me about 12 months to get back to work, I work with children with complex needs, and it is quite physical work, but very rewarding.  

Keep posting for any advice.

Take care 

Diane xxx

LOL like the shopping bit Diane ! thats what I would imagaine me doing as i have to go to cardiff which is a good hour or more from where I live. I will have to relie on this provided transport thing but hoping some family or friends will help along the way.

So are you saying you lost your hair because you had CHEMO. Not from radiation yea ? I have not got huge boobs hope it dont shrink the one down too much ! 

I can see that these experiences do change people and they appriciate more in life. God and I have a deal ! i asked him to get me through this and let me keep my Boob and my hair and eyelashes and in turn I would do something positive with this after I am well, be it a talk to older girls in school or raise awareness or something.  Early detection is the most vital thing and I am hoping in my case I have caught it early and It will be a horrible thing I have to go through like all the other brave ladies on here but at the end of the day im still alive to tell the tale kind of thing.

I think I have pretty much written off work for this year but I was self employed so no pressure from a tight *** boss to go back lol.

Just another little silly thing, I was wondering after do they reccommend you buy NOT  underwired bras ? i was thinking of buying some cotton non wired ones.  ( next to the time where i go bra free at home which is bliss, yes i do the bra out of the sleeve thing as i sit down and watch tv lol)

Suzie xx