Hi LunaMuna,

Please have some virtual, sherpa-blanket-cosy hugs from me then, with a big mug of hot cocoa too :)

I know sometimes it's hard to take comfort from cold, hard numbers, but the survival rates for stage 2 really are exceptionally high.  Obviously you still have treatment to get through though.

Still, I've just noticed that you are my age (I was diagnosed early summer) and I have to say that youthfulness is definitely a help in terms of tolerating the treatment.  It can still be tough at times but the fact that your skin is still quite young etc. means the treatment is less likely to have a negative effect on it.  That goes for other body parts too.  My mum went through the same chemo as me 8 years ago (she was early 60s) and it definitely took more of a toll on her body.  I don't think chemo has had any long-term effects on my body, well if it has I haven't noticed them.  Also, the treatment plan really does look like it goes on for a long time when it's presented to you, but it's ridiculous how fast it goes.  I was only diagnosed early summer and here I am feeling well, enjoying the run-up to Christmas and with a funky cropped hairdo (it's come back so quickly it needs neatened up for Christmas :D ).

I don't know if you're the kind of person who would be helped by starting to do practical things that will help you long term?  If you are then there are a couple of things you could start doing immediately.  One is moisturising morning and night, particularly taking care of your hands and feet.  Drinking lots of water.  Starting to look after your dental hygiene even more than usual and, if you need any dental work then getting it done asap.  You skin and gums are the main way for bacteria and infection to get into your system which is obviously a risk if you are to be on chemotherapy, so the more preventative action you can take now the better.  And sometimes it does help to feel like you're taking control over at least some part of the situation, no matter how small it may seem.

I can't see any way that you'll be starting treatment before Christmas.  So, much as you're still suffering from the shock of diagnosis, you can enjoy all the Christmas food etc. as normal, and you might as well make the most of it.  I promise once treatment starts the time will fly by, this part that you're in just now really is the slowest, most dragged-out part but it's best that they do take the time and get the best treatment plan in place for you.

We all know what you are going through, if we can help at all just shout!

LJxx

Hi LJ

Thank you for all your great advice. Its fab to hear that you are feeling well now. Have you finished your treatment?

I've been told chemo first, that's all I know. I'm so scared that my lymph nodes haven't done enough and that cancer has spread everywhere. 

My youngest, who is 4, has been a rock. Even though all he knows is that mummy has a sore boob, he's been looking after me and calls himself mummy's teddy. I've got to fight this for my children but it seems so scary and daunting right now.

I can't keep it out of my head that it's spread and I won't be able to beat this and its destroying me. 

Thank you for the hugs, it really does feel better to hear positive stories like yours. 

Xxx

I totally understand all your emotions (we all do) before Monday (when I was diagnosed) I felt pretty normal.....whatever normal is.....but since Monday I can feel every pain ache tingle you name it I can feel it! I am telling myself it has spread....then I have to pull myself together.....I won't know for sure until after surgery.....just be assured we all " know" also what I keep thinking of is my dear mum who had a radical mastectomy followed by alsorts of treatment....her cancer was very advanced..they had to take out most of her lymph nodes and part of her chest wall....she survived cancer......sadly we lost her 5 years ago...but the cancer didn't get..... xxxxxxx

Hi Maryln

So sorry to hear about your mum, she sounds like a very brave lady. 

I'm totally with you about the aches and pains, I feel like I've aged 50 years since my diagnosis on Monday.

Do you have plans for Christmas? I'm trying to be brave especially for my 4 year old who is a Christmas monster at the moment!

I see you have dogs on your picture, hope they are looking after you. My dog, who is a lurcher x border terrier won't leave me alone!

Positive thoughts xxxxx

She was a very strong woman my mum....all " stuff and nonsense " if you know what I mean.....

we are having a very quiet crimbo but I am determined to enjoy it, you sound like you will have your hands full! I think it will help you enormously....

we only have the black and white one now, we lost diva a few months back. Rubi is my little nurse and seems to know something is up.

onwards and upwards my friend....we can do this! Xxxx

Hi maryln

Dogs are great, so intuitive. My dog fell in love with me the day I rescued him and has been my solid, constant companion ever since. 

We too are having a quiet one, just for the kids really. Trying to be brave..... 

Lots of hugs

Xxxxx

I am holding your hand, I know you can't feel it but it's there.......xxxxxx

Thanks maryln, i'm holding yours right back xxxxx

Hi LJ

Gosh, that must be so hard. But I really admire your positivity. In sure mine will come with time... 

My GP was rubbish, she told me to cancel my first appt at breast clinic as I was 'getting better'.

Im sorry to hear that it is something that has affected you and your family for so long. What a diabolical disease this is. There really does need to be a massive shake up in the NHS, I really felt my gp knew nothing. 

Kind thoughts being sent to you and your family

Xxxxx