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Reality of treatment

MissThomas1988
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Hi all,

I am 32 years older and recently diagnosed with breast cancer. 
 

Yesterday, I discussed my treatment plan. I will be having a mastectomy and immediate reconstruction of my right breast followed by 4-6 months of chemotherapy before starting hormone tablets. 
 

The news is still sinking in but I wondered if anyone has any advise or can share personal experiences of the reality of the treatment. I've been told 4-6 weeks to recover post surgery but what does this look like? How much help will I need?! Chemo is a terrifying prospect but what is the actual reality of this? How sick will I be?

I do realise that this is probably different for everyone but would really like to understand first hand experience if anyone is happy to share. Or if you have supported a loved one, perhaps you have a different insight which I could share with my partner. 
 

Thank you x

Parents
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    Hi

    After two years of receiving all the possible treatments for stage 4b cervical cancer including two rounds of chemo, I can only echo what you wrote I.e. that we all experience treatment differently, even each round of chemo can be different. That is precious knowledge. Different bodies, different diseases, different circumstances, different outlooks, different minds...

    The people whose treatment goes relatively well may not post as much as those with traumatic or difficult experiences. I know I tend to return to the forums when the going gets tough.

    My wonderful CNS is for me the best person to discuss my fears as she is both honest and reassuring that what I fear MAY not happen.

    Personally I have put my energy into keeping or re-establishing my peace of mind. Not easy. Not always immediately possible. But a very good compass with good results so far. 

    Take care and very best wishes to you

Reply
  • Offline

    Hi

    After two years of receiving all the possible treatments for stage 4b cervical cancer including two rounds of chemo, I can only echo what you wrote I.e. that we all experience treatment differently, even each round of chemo can be different. That is precious knowledge. Different bodies, different diseases, different circumstances, different outlooks, different minds...

    The people whose treatment goes relatively well may not post as much as those with traumatic or difficult experiences. I know I tend to return to the forums when the going gets tough.

    My wonderful CNS is for me the best person to discuss my fears as she is both honest and reassuring that what I fear MAY not happen.

    Personally I have put my energy into keeping or re-establishing my peace of mind. Not easy. Not always immediately possible. But a very good compass with good results so far. 

    Take care and very best wishes to you

Children
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