Hi 

I am sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with BC

I am Diagnosed with stage 1 grade 2 BC 

Had surgery on the 17nov 

They did the biography on lymph nodes 

Had MRI that came clear  so no further surgery is needed  and just started radio therapy 2 days ago for five days . I am 57

I know it's very worrying  but you haveto stay positive  its stage one  high chances are it would not have  spread !! 

Take one day at time and look after yourself  and tell your close family you will need family support 

Jeet123

Hello,

Thank you for the message. I was told with my breast doctor that grade 1 BC is treatable. But I'm worried because I have other health issues. Recently  October 2020 after my bone density I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis and start seeing physiotherapy. The following month  November I was diagnosed with BC so I informed my physiotherapist what was going on and was scheduled for operation on 16 December 2020. My physiotherapist discharged me and she said my breast doctor know what they can do with my bone problem.

I am still waiting to see my surgeon, supposed to be my appointment was yesterday but it was cancelled as they are still waiting for the biopsy result.

I am in constant pain everyday with my shoulder bones and lumbar spine and on pain reliever. The  pain add to my stress thinking about my illnesses! I hope no more cancellation of appointment next Thursday so I can talk to my breast doctor about it and see when am I going to have a radiotherapy.

Sending you all the best xx

Dear Jolamine,

I am so sorry to hear that the cause of death of your Mum was breast cancer. This is what people think that once you have cancer your life will be shorten no matter how old you are. But I believe it is depend on what sort of cancer you get. I’ve heard a lot of stories about cancer survivors and they live a cancer free life. Just like  I mentioned previously that my first husband died of brain cancer at the age of 38. No chance surviving.

Someone says, once you have cancer or terminal illness be thankful and it’s a blessings in disguise because you have time to prepare for yourself what needs to be done once you’re gone.  That’s how I feel, whatever happens I am preparing for myself for the next journey after this....  ‘the life after death’.At the moment I believe I have a high chances of getting over with this crisis and hopefully after the fifth radiotherapy next week all the sleepless nights and anxiety will be over. As I said, this is just the beginning of my long journey and I cannot say what lies ahead of this journey. Only God knows.

I got a Lymphoedema brochure and read them all and understand what is this all about. My question is.. when did you got that Lymphoedema  is it after your lumpectomy or double mastectomy? How long until it was completely healed? 

The reason I want to keep this from people around us is I want to avoid the “how are you’s and are you okay’s” question from friends and in laws. I don’t want them to worry about me and keep me updating or calling me how I get on. This lock down really help me shielding not seeing my friends because if not lock down and we see each other regularly, once they will see me in person of course they will notice that something wrong with me as I lost weight so badly.

The last time I’ve meet my 2 friends was second week of October 2020, we had lunch in town. The same day on my way back home I got car crushed but managed to drive home safely. Because the frontal part of my car has been badly damaged and needs to send out to the shop for repair, I have not driven for a month, then November had 2 diagnosis (severe osteoarthritis and breast cancer) plus lock down. Hopefully when lock down will be lifted and we are allowed to mix people from different household, and also my rads is finish and everything’s goes well, that is the time I will see our friends. I hope I will be back in good shape so they cannot question me what happen. 

I have 3 grown up kids from my first marriage, they know since day 1 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I assure my kids that everything will be okay as my breast team were so lovely and helpful. Health service is fantastic and it looks like they won’t let me go until I undergo all the treatment they offered to me.

I know and understand how you’ve been through. Having a cancer give us  physically and emotionally exhausted. I am really pleased I’ve found this site and meet you as my support group during this long journey where I can easily talk to and share with what I’ve been through. I will carry on rowing my boat up to the finishing line and face whatever hindrances that I come across.I believe that God is in control and He is my company along this long journey. Amen. 

Best wishes and lots of love. Happy LOVE DAY!!

LL2011

Hi Lagerlime,

We all have to die of something and, having a solid link to the church helps many people in their preparation and acceptance of this. Still, there are many who are afraid of death and, would rather go to bed one night and pass peacefully without waking up the following day. Until we are faced with the situation it is hard to say how we’ll react. It must have been so hard for you losing your husband at only 38, especially when you still had 3 young children to care for. I lost a young colleague to brain cancer too. He was only 26 and had undergone several long and gruelling operations, but sadly the surgeons couldn’t remove the entire tumour.

You are right that it depends upon what type, grade and stage our cancer is, as to what the outcome is likely to be. You are fortunate that breast cancer is one of the types with a better outcome and you have caught it early. You have every chance of living a long and cancer-free life after you complete your treatment. The first year is always hard, but it is ‘doable’. Half of the trouble at this stage is that everything happens so quickly that we no longer feel in charge of our own lives. Once your radiotherapy is finished, you will gradually begin to get back on track and take ownership back again.

What a pity you had the car accident in October – this just goes to show how tenuous life is. Even with a cancer diagnosis, many people die of other causes. Fortunately, this just goes to show that the Lord is not ready for you yet. We are so fortunate to have the NHS and all of the fantastic care and attention it offers. I am still attending the lymphoedema clinic 11 years on and, will possibly have to do so forever. My lymphoedema started about 6 months after I had my lumpectomy. I kept re-sizing my rings and found that sleeves on some of my clothing were getting tight. It wasn’t until a chance comment that one of my nurses suggested I got this seen to, that it was diagnosed. Sadly, I’m lucky enough to have it in both arms.

I hope that the rest of your radiotherapy goes well this week and, that you have no need of the preparations you've put in place for many yyears to come.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hello Jolamine,

It takes a couple of days before I answer to your letter. Firstly- I waited for my fifth radiotherapy to finished that was yesterday. Secondly- I’ve been struggling recently with my both arms and stiff shoulder. It’s difficult to lift when I get dressed, soap my body when in the shower. I had this pain before I was diagnosed with BC in October last year. I though it is just simply a pain of arthritis but it seems not. Arthritis pain is in our joint, right? but mine was throbbing pain the entire arms down to my elbow.  I lay down flat when sleeping, I cannot lay on my side as pinning my shoulder/arm against the bed make it so painful. 

Since had my lumpectomy 2 mos ago I keep exercising my arms at least 2-3x a day but recently the pain and stiffness is getting worse! I have no plans to contact my Physiotherapist as she already discharged me after knowing that I have BC, so I google exercise for stiff shoulder. I come across to a website with video on how to do shoulder exercise at home. Alas! It really helps lessen the pain and don’t feel throbbing pain in the past 2 nights. It give me a relieve since then. 

That’s right, some people are afraid to die. But we all go through it wether we like it or not. Overcoming a health crisis  is a great gift we must thanked for that we are given a chance to enjoy life and see our families, see our children growing up and see our grandchildren. I know there are unfortunate people who does not live longer after their diagnose but that’s life is all about. My husband said, “life in the UK, you’re born, pay tax and die” lol! That’s why when we are given a chance to live a longer life we must treasure every single moment and enjoy life to the fullest. 

With regards to my full radiotherapy treatment, I’m so glad it’s all done now! I will wait for an oncology appointment from now 4-8 weeks for check up. Treatment goes fine but the skin of my right breast look cooked, it turn really dark compare to my left boob. According to the radiographer yesterday It takes at least 3 weeks until the radiation in my breast faded away. That’s why it is advisable to drink plenty of liquids to keep hydrated.  I will keep an eye for some side effect like blistering of breast skin and lympoedema as it is too early to see any sign of side effect at this stage when I had just finished my rads.  

After the biopsy and know the result that you have cancer that’s the time your views of life changed, your emotion changed and left us physically exhausted. I passed 2 months since my diagnosed and I feel relieve now that the lumpectomy and radiotherapy has been done and hopefully my mind is in peace and look forward with great expectation.  Above all, I thank God that He is in control of the situation and He is my comforter during those dark times. 

Thank you so very much for taking the time to write to me. That is very much appreciated! You help me a lot in dealing with my BC by sharing your own experience. Your message mean a lot to me. I will  keep in touch with you from time to time until I see my oncology possibly by the end of March and give you some updates.

For now, best wishes to you, take care and keep safe at all times! 

Sending you lots of love and virtual hugs.

LL2011

Hi Lagerlime,

There is never any hurry to answer my posts. I’m delighted to hear that you have finished your radiotherapy, as I’m sure, are you. Keep drinking plenty of water and, with any luck you won’t get any further side-effects. Here’s hoping that your scan in a couple of months will show that this has all been worthwhile. I am sorry to hear about the pain and stiffness in your shoulders and arms.

I am not a doctor, but as far as I understand, Arthritis does affect the bone and joints but this can also be accompanied by inflammation of the surrounding soft tissue. If this pain continues contact your physiotherapist again, as she will know the right exercises to give you. Sometimes we can choose the wrong ones ourselves and end up doing more harm than good. Certainly, keep doing your breast care exercises as often as you can.

It sounds as if you have a realistic outlook of our time on this earth. There is little that we can do to alter our allotted time, but it is comforting to know that you have come to terms with this. Having your religious beliefs must give you solace in this respect.

It would be lovely to hear from you occasionally with updates along your journey, but here’s hoping that you are now well on your way to recovery.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi @Jolamine, 

Hope you are doing well and keep busy with your daily routine.

A week ago after I finished 5 sessions of radiotherapy, it looks like everything goes so well. But yesterday I really felt so down not able to do things I normally do on day to day basis. Really knackered and I just want to lie down or sit down and do nothing! Do you think it’s still the effect of radiation? But during my ongoing treatment I didn’t feel tired at all only yesterday.The radiographer mentioned that it takes at least 3 weeks the radiation stay in our system  or in treated area. I am okay today and manage to do some washing. 

Got a letter yesterday for my oncology appointment on the 26th March. This is a phone call appointment, so far no hospital appointment which is good.

I emailed my Physiotherapist and ask if I have a chance to see her again in person. I really need her because of my stiff and painful shoulders. 

Take care and keep safe. X

LL2011

Hi Lagerlime,

I am sure that you're relieved to have your radiotherapy behind you, but sorry to hear that you are feeling so tired. Fatigue can start any time during, or after cancer treatment and can build up over time. I found that it also doesn’t go away when you rest. I had this for a number of years and, just had to give in to it until I was well enough to start to try and overcome it. Fortunately, it is usually only temporary and ends when treatment finishes or a short while after this, although some people suffer long-term fatigue.

It is often worth mentioning the way you feel to your breast care nurse, as sometimes a change of medication can make a difference. Are you taking any alternative medication? Many of these can have an adverse effect on any allopathic medication that you’re taking. It is always a good idea to pass any homoeopathic/alternative therapies by your care team before you start taking them.

I am so sorry to hear that yesterday was a bad day for you, but glad to hear that today was a better one. We often refer to the cancer journey as a rollercoaster, as we’re up one minute and down the next.

What can you do to combat fatigue? Exercise, but don’t overdo it at first. You also need to rest and eat well, sleep and relax when you can. Exercise will help you to sleep better and will give you more energy. It will also increase your appetite and improve your mood. You will feel happier to have your date in for your oncology appointment. I agree that it is not ideal to have your consultation over the phone, but sadly, many of us have to do things this way at the moment.

I am glad to hear that you have emailed your physiotherapist and hope that she gets back to you soon, as it sounds like you need more help with your shoulder and arms.

Hello again @Jolamine, 

I feel a lot better since yesterday and back to normal routine doing household chores.

I am taking Tamoxifen and going to finish my second pack this week. Meaning nearly 2 months of taking this medication.  So far I don’t feel any difference before and after taking this. My appetite is normal, I don’t feel nausea, sometimes my sleep is not good but some nights it is okay, except this aching shoulders which is before I was diagnose with BC I have stiff shoulders already. It just feel worse after the lumpectomy.

I got a reply from my Physiotherapist and for the second time she refused  not to treat me but she said she is happy to recommend me to the “breast cancer physio team” as they are the one expert to help my problem. 

When I spoke to my surgeon and told me about the  plan for treatment, I mentioned that I have stiff shoulders. Before having lumpectomy in December my Physiotherapist discharged me and mentioned that the oncologist have breast cancer physiotherapist team which my surgeon denied of having these therapist but  instead suggested me to go back to my Physiotherapist. Now my Physiotherapist said she will refer me to the ‘breast cancer physio team’. I don’t know where to go as people are pushing me back and forth!! I am like sitting on a rocking chair!! 

I don’t bother contacting them anymore! Too much hassle! I found this in YouTube =  “NHS = The Christie NHS Foundation Trust......... Radiotherapy Exercise Class for breast cancer patients”  The routine exercise of this video is what I am doing 3x a day and it help. I will carry on searching for more trusted website for stiff shoulders exercise. 

I have maintenance for high blood pressure, Amlodipine and Atorvastatin, Vitamin D Stexerol-D3 1,000IU, food supplement Spirulina and lastly Tamoxifen. I mentioned these medication with my surgeon. 

Since I am not working I have more time to do exercise. I am watching my diet. I abstain from eating sugary food, alcohol and red meat. (I am not very fond of eating meat) Hopefully weather is good so we can go for a long walk. 

Soon we can meet our friends and love ones when all the restrictions will be lifted. We are in Southwest of England. Different part of the UK has different rules to follow. 

Thank you and take care. X

LL2011

Hi Lagerlime,

I am glad that you felt a lot better today and are back to doing your usual chores. Don't upset yourself if you get some bad days as well. Just let your body rest until you are ready to get into the fray again.

I am sorry to hear that your physio wasn't willing to see you again. Has she referred you to the "breast cancer physio team"? Let her do this and see what happens. Having sore shoulders and arms won't be very condusive to a good night's sleep.

I am glad to hear that you are watching your diet, as you may find that you put on some weight with Tamoxifen. It is also reassuring to know that you have duscussed all of your medication with your consultant, as many people don't think to mention homoeopathic or alternative products. It will be great when we can all get out for a walk again. In the meanwhile, try to keep up with the exercises you have.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi @Jolamine 

I re-read your previous message and I’ve missed to mentioned this... That’s true, having cancer and after treatment our situation is like riding a rollercoaster. It is a bumpy ride and scary.I easily get irritated and grumpy with just a small thing. I speak to my husband about it and ask him to widen his patience and hold his temper and ignore me when sometimes I acted strange. People around us need to understand our behaviour because it’s not easy dealing with cancer. It give us mentally and emotionally exhausted. 

The Physiotherapist asked me if it is okay with me that another therapist will assist me so she can refer me to the breast cancer physio team, I reply “I’m fine with my online class breast cancer exercise”. I don’t bother asking her a favour after she declined twice. 

Today is my friend’s birthday and I (drove 8 miles one way) went to their house to give her a birthday gifts. She noticed and mentioned that I lost weight. She never know what’s going on with me in the past 3 months. We keep communicating tru text messages and phone calls but we did not see each other since October last year  when I had a car crashed. She was my passenger when my  car involved with head on collision with another car. So nearly 4 months since the  last time we’ve met before we see each other again today. 

So taking Tamoxifen in 2 months time did not put me on weight. Maybe it’s too early to see improvement of gaining weight. This is what I read on reviews of people taking Tamoxifen that they put on weight, hot flushes, dry skin and insomnia. Plus the fact that I abstain from eating red meat and sugary food. I think that helps not to gain weight so soon while recuperating from breast operation and radiotherapy. 

Soon will be spring time and  slowly easing the lock down and that we have more time to go out the house for a walk or do gardening to keep us busy. 

Thank you and have a good evening. 

Sending you virtual hugs. X

LL2011

Hi Lagerlime,

A cancer diagnosis brings with it a whole plethora of emotions from fear, anxiety, concern for loved ones and, we no longer feel in control of our own lives. Is it any wonder that we feel grumpy and tetchy? My husband is the most mild mannered man and, we have seldom had a cross word in 47 years of marriage, but I made his life a nightmare when I was first diagnosed. I explained to him that I couldn’t help how I felt and asked him to make allowances for my unacceptable behaviour.

The poor man eventually had to seek the help of a counsellor to deal with the situation and, she assured him that this could happen and gave him some coping tips. I knew that I was being totally unreasonable, but just couldn’t help myself. I am now thoroughly ashamed of how I behaved, which was totally out of character. If it hadn’t been for some members on this forum, I don’t know what I would have done. They honestly kept me sane, which is why I have contributed to so many posts.

I’m sure that you enjoyed meeting up with your friend yesterday, even though she had no idea of how much you’ve been through since she last saw you. I didn’t realise how much weight I’d piled on with hormone therapy until I had been taking them for a few years. It is just as well that you are aware of the possibility of weight gain early on and can keep it in check.

The nights are getting lighter already and the early plants are slowly coming into flower. I can’t wait to get back out in the garden and to feel some fresh air again.

Things have to get better!

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi Lagerlime,

A cancer diagnosis brings with it a whole plethora of emotions from fear, anxiety, concern for loved ones and, we no longer feel in control of our own lives. Is it any wonder that we feel grumpy and tetchy? My husband is the most mild mannered man and, we have seldom had a cross word in 47 years of marriage, but I made his life a nightmare when I was first diagnosed. I explained to him that I couldn’t help how I felt and asked him to make allowances for my unacceptable behaviour.

The poor man eventually had to seek the help of a counsellor to deal with the situation and, she assured him that this could happen and gave him some coping tips. I knew that I was being totally unreasonable, but just couldn’t help myself. I am now thoroughly ashamed of how I behaved, which was totally out of character. If it hadn’t been for some members on this forum, I don’t know what I would have done. They honestly kept me sane, which is why I have contributed to so many posts.

I’m sure that you enjoyed meeting up with your friend yesterday, even though she had no idea of how much you’ve been through since she last saw you. I didn’t realise how much weight I’d piled on with hormone therapy until I had been taking them for a few years. It is just as well that you are aware of the possibility of weight gain early on and can keep it in check.

The nights are getting lighter already and the early plants are slowly coming into flower. I can’t wait to get back out in the garden and to feel some fresh air again.

Things have to get better!

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx