I'v been reading your post for a few days now, I would like to talk
WOW!!!!Lifes a trip!!
Comments
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Alison.......
Welcome Alison, although I'm very sorry for your dx. I think you will enjoy being here. This place is open 24/7, and as you know if you have been reading posts, the goal here is encouragement, to answer questions, and of course, to find some laughter where we can!
Of course you are both scared. Who wouldn't be? And just starting your life together....talk about a monkey wrench being thrown into the works!
But as I, as well as so many others here have discovered, we can get through our treatments and we can go on and have happy lives. And that's the goal...go on and have a happy life.
Congrats to your daughter! How exciting!!
Hang in and hang on and we will do our best to help both you and your hubby to get through everything that lies ahead.
All my best,
CR0 -
AlisonCR1954 said:Alison.......
Welcome Alison, although I'm very sorry for your dx. I think you will enjoy being here. This place is open 24/7, and as you know if you have been reading posts, the goal here is encouragement, to answer questions, and of course, to find some laughter where we can!
Of course you are both scared. Who wouldn't be? And just starting your life together....talk about a monkey wrench being thrown into the works!
But as I, as well as so many others here have discovered, we can get through our treatments and we can go on and have happy lives. And that's the goal...go on and have a happy life.
Congrats to your daughter! How exciting!!
Hang in and hang on and we will do our best to help both you and your hubby to get through everything that lies ahead.
All my best,
CR
I also want to welcome you ... although I'm sorry for the reason.
It is totally reasonable that you are scared silly. We all are/were. But ... as CR said ... we are all here for each other.
While our personal experiences may be different ... we all have one thing in common. Breast Cancer. Our diagnosis has brought us together ... and we are a very special family. We are here 24/7. I can't tell you how many times I've had trouble sleeping ... got up ... logged in at some crazy hour and low and behold ... there's someone else out there who just posted something. If not ... I can sit at the computer and type my little brains out and unload anything that's on my mind. I will not be judged ... no matter how crazy my posting might be. If something is on my mind ... this is the place to unload. We are here to share our experiences, knowledge, and love. We truly care about each other... as you will find. And we do welcome you to the family. You will be amazed at how many people have felt the same feelings you are feeling ... the same fears ... stress etc. While all of our experiences are different ... they are also very much alike. We've all been terrified ... overwhelmed with medical mumbo-jumbo ... anxious about waiting for tests, surgeries, lab results etc. We've all had to deal with "sharing the news" with family and friends etc.
Everything we go through seems so much easier when you have people who have "walked the walk" and understand ... and that's what we do. We're here for each other ... and welcome to the family.
hugs.
teena0 -
Nice to meet you!
Hi Alison and welcome to our group of very caring and supportive folks, I am glad you found us. First let me congratulate you on your marriage (you are a newlywed :-)) how wonderful, and I would like to congratulate your daughter on her graduation tomorrow, a true milestone.
It certainly is a scary thing to find out you have, but trust me we will be here for you all you need do is post you questions, concerns, rants and whatever else you need to convey. Since you are just starting out on this let me suggest that you get a note pad kept handy to write down any and all questions that come to mind as once you are in the presence of the docs we often forget many of our concerns. I have been dealing with cancer now for 12 years and I still bring my note pad into the office with me, no question is too silly to ask they are all important. Try to always have someone with you at your appt. because we also tend to miss info because obviously we are a tad stressed, a second pair of less stressed ears is always a plus.
I wish you all the best and good health in your future!
RE0 -
Welcome, Alison
I am sorry for the reason you are, but I also welcome you. My initial experience is similar to yours: routine mamo, tumor on left breast, radical mastectomy. This was back in November. My husband found this wonderful place later in January. You will find the same unconditional support and understanding and care. Please keep in touch, and don't hesitate to ask any questions, or just vent.0 -
Hi Alison
I too have infilteraing ductal carcinoma - grade 3. I am just alittle ahead of you for surgery (June 10th) but will be going in for the lumpectomy attempt. So whenever you need to you can come here for comfort. There are those of us that are ahead, some just starting out, and others right where your at. No matter where anyone is inn their journey this is the best place with the best people to surround yourself with!! Pammy 0 -
Hi Alison and welcome. So
Hi Alison and welcome. So sorry you have to be here but as it's been said, there are a wonderful group of men and women here to help you and your husband along. I had grade 3 IDC and yes I was terrified. I'd lost my mother-in-law to bc, so it was a little close to home.
Good luck to you with your tx and know we are here for you.
hugs
jan0 -
Hi Allison
I'm Robin, and I am new to this as well. I have stage 2 infiltrating ductile cancer with something called starburst?? Anyway, I will have a double radical mastecomy on the 18th of June, followed by treatments and reconstruction at some point!
After reading a ton of blogs, I have begun to feel better about my DX. I think having the support of someone that is going through the same thing will help us all! Ask your local American Cancer Society Office if they have a program called.... Reach to Recovery. This is an ACS support program where a trained volunteer that has had the same type of cancer and surgery will meet with you and talk about your upcoming journey. Your "Buddy" if you will, will bring you a care bag full of breast pillows, brochures, after surgery bra and tons of support!
I will tell you all what I have stated to my staff, family and peers ....
I WILL FIGHT LIKE A GIRL....BUT WIN LIKE A WOMAN!!! ;- )0 -
Warm welcome, Alison!
You've found the perfect group. Though I am sorry for the reason you're here.
Of course you're scared - it's a frightening disease. But, very treatable. You are now surrounded by SURVIVORS, all of us. I hope you find strength in that knowledge.
We travel the journey one step at a time, always moving forward. Please visit often, we'll be here to walk alongside you.
Kind regards, Susan0 -
welcome Robinrobin1965 said:Hi Allison
I'm Robin, and I am new to this as well. I have stage 2 infiltrating ductile cancer with something called starburst?? Anyway, I will have a double radical mastecomy on the 18th of June, followed by treatments and reconstruction at some point!
After reading a ton of blogs, I have begun to feel better about my DX. I think having the support of someone that is going through the same thing will help us all! Ask your local American Cancer Society Office if they have a program called.... Reach to Recovery. This is an ACS support program where a trained volunteer that has had the same type of cancer and surgery will meet with you and talk about your upcoming journey. Your "Buddy" if you will, will bring you a care bag full of breast pillows, brochures, after surgery bra and tons of support!
I will tell you all what I have stated to my staff, family and peers ....
I WILL FIGHT LIKE A GIRL....BUT WIN LIKE A WOMAN!!! ;- )
Robin, sorry for the reason, but welcome to the site. Love your attitude :-)
I had a bilateral mastectomy March 25th last year. It is still a long road ahead but you will look back at it next year and wonder how time flew by so fast.
Take care of yourself. Will keep you in my prayers.
Debbie0 -
welcome Alison
Hi Alison. Welcome to the site and club we wish we didn't belong to
I am 50 also, and had a bilateral mastectomy 3/25 last year. It seems like so long ago now.
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Debbie
Congrats on the grad :-) Have a great celebration with your family.0 -
Hi Alison. I am new here
Hi Alison. I am new here too, but, this is a great group. You will find a lot of comfort
here and answers to your questions. And, a newlywed? Congrats on that too! And, congrats
on your daughters graduation. A proud Mom, I would assume. I wish you the best Alison and
welcome again!0 -
Robinrobin1965 said:Hi Allison
I'm Robin, and I am new to this as well. I have stage 2 infiltrating ductile cancer with something called starburst?? Anyway, I will have a double radical mastecomy on the 18th of June, followed by treatments and reconstruction at some point!
After reading a ton of blogs, I have begun to feel better about my DX. I think having the support of someone that is going through the same thing will help us all! Ask your local American Cancer Society Office if they have a program called.... Reach to Recovery. This is an ACS support program where a trained volunteer that has had the same type of cancer and surgery will meet with you and talk about your upcoming journey. Your "Buddy" if you will, will bring you a care bag full of breast pillows, brochures, after surgery bra and tons of support!
I will tell you all what I have stated to my staff, family and peers ....
I WILL FIGHT LIKE A GIRL....BUT WIN LIKE A WOMAN!!! ;- )
You touched my heart with your bravery. I am so glad you are here. you wll find so much love and comfort here,Please keep us informed.
All my best to you always Jackie0 -
Hi, Kiddo
You have found the right place and the best people here on this website. Many of us are now survivors, others of us are just begining that frightening journey, but the point is -- we're here to support, listen, share and cheer you on. It appears that you've already made some momentous decisions with the bilateral mastectomy - whether by your choice or dictated by that damnable lump. Now your journey begins in earnest and you will amaze yourself with your strength and your courage. Chemo is doable, radiation is doable, it's all doable. Believe that! And, when you need a little boost, come here. You'll get it from one or the others of us. Hugs, Marilynn0 -
Thank Youtaleena said:Welcome to the group. I am
Welcome to the group. I am so sorry that you are here... You will find a wealth of support here... love, understanding, support and information..I couldn't have hand picked a better support group!
We're here for you.
~T
I'v been in recluse for a "few" days, I cried when I read all the posts, wow! All my scans came back good so there is no apparent spread. My bilat surgery is scheduled for friday. I very aware that this is the last Sunday I will have with these breasts. My husband and I are just not sure, in real life, what to get or do, to prepare for when I come home. I quit smoking for the rest of my life, 9 day ago. Grrrr....grrrr. I would love to hear back from you.
God Bless,
Alison0 -
Hi,Alison Webb said:Thank You
I'v been in recluse for a "few" days, I cried when I read all the posts, wow! All my scans came back good so there is no apparent spread. My bilat surgery is scheduled for friday. I very aware that this is the last Sunday I will have with these breasts. My husband and I are just not sure, in real life, what to get or do, to prepare for when I come home. I quit smoking for the rest of my life, 9 day ago. Grrrr....grrrr. I would love to hear back from you.
God Bless,
Alison
Good Luck with your
Hi,
Good Luck with your surgery. I had bilat. mast. in January. Things I was glad to have...a mastectomy tank top. It has padding you can make smaller or take out of each side. It also had removeable drain holders that velcro into it and hold the drains so they are not hanging. Also I had to sleep on my recliner for 2 weeks. If I lied in the bed flat I could not get up myself. I have a friend who just used tons of pillows. I was stubborn and wanted to shower and dress alone but finally gave in to my mom or husband helping me put shirts on. Zip ups are the easiest, over the head was harder for me but only for a few weeks. Not easy to do when you are not able to use your arms much. Oh and funny story, not sure what I was thinking but packed a blow dryer for the hospital, yeah you won't need it. Gonna need someone to help you with that too. Well I did anyway. Not trying to make it sound horrible just being honest in what you may come across. Hope it goes well for you. Stay positive and I will be thinking of you.
Kim0 -
Hey AlisonAlison Webb said:Thank You
I'v been in recluse for a "few" days, I cried when I read all the posts, wow! All my scans came back good so there is no apparent spread. My bilat surgery is scheduled for friday. I very aware that this is the last Sunday I will have with these breasts. My husband and I are just not sure, in real life, what to get or do, to prepare for when I come home. I quit smoking for the rest of my life, 9 day ago. Grrrr....grrrr. I would love to hear back from you.
God Bless,
Alison
Good luck with
Hey Alison
Good luck with the surgery. I think most people find the recovery from the surgery fairly
easy and not too painful. The worst part is usually the drains they put in and those are removed after a couple of days usually.Congrats on giving up smoking...I know with the added stress it can't be easy ...I think I just slept a lot after surgery so your hubby just needs to let you rest and feed you well.
Dee0 -
Hi Allison and Robin,Alison Webb said:Thank You
I'v been in recluse for a "few" days, I cried when I read all the posts, wow! All my scans came back good so there is no apparent spread. My bilat surgery is scheduled for friday. I very aware that this is the last Sunday I will have with these breasts. My husband and I are just not sure, in real life, what to get or do, to prepare for when I come home. I quit smoking for the rest of my life, 9 day ago. Grrrr....grrrr. I would love to hear back from you.
God Bless,
Alison
The
Hi Allison and Robin,
The only advice I can offer is---Cry whenever you feel like it, and without having to explain to anyone, laugh often (mostly at friends and family who offer unwanted advice), and whatever decisions you make--make them knowing they are the correct ones for you.
This is very doable as everyone has said. One of the reasons there are so many people here is because we're all living longer even when diagnosed with "the beast". I bet you'd be surprised how many years of survivorship you'd find here if we added them all up. I'm 1 1/2 years post diagnosis, mastectomy, chemo, and rads, and still here to drive everyone nuts and tell dirty jokes! (well, SOMEONE has to do it!)
We're all here for you and will be waiting to hear from you after surgery.
Good luck and lots of (((hugs)))0 -
home after surgeryconfused123 said:Hi,
Good Luck with your
Hi,
Good Luck with your surgery. I had bilat. mast. in January. Things I was glad to have...a mastectomy tank top. It has padding you can make smaller or take out of each side. It also had removeable drain holders that velcro into it and hold the drains so they are not hanging. Also I had to sleep on my recliner for 2 weeks. If I lied in the bed flat I could not get up myself. I have a friend who just used tons of pillows. I was stubborn and wanted to shower and dress alone but finally gave in to my mom or husband helping me put shirts on. Zip ups are the easiest, over the head was harder for me but only for a few weeks. Not easy to do when you are not able to use your arms much. Oh and funny story, not sure what I was thinking but packed a blow dryer for the hospital, yeah you won't need it. Gonna need someone to help you with that too. Well I did anyway. Not trying to make it sound horrible just being honest in what you may come across. Hope it goes well for you. Stay positive and I will be thinking of you.
Kim
Thank you Kim, for all the tips. It is a big big help to have some advice from people who have been there.
Thank you again,
Alison0 -
Hi AllisonNorcalJ said:Hi Allison and Robin,
The
Hi Allison and Robin,
The only advice I can offer is---Cry whenever you feel like it, and without having to explain to anyone, laugh often (mostly at friends and family who offer unwanted advice), and whatever decisions you make--make them knowing they are the correct ones for you.
This is very doable as everyone has said. One of the reasons there are so many people here is because we're all living longer even when diagnosed with "the beast". I bet you'd be surprised how many years of survivorship you'd find here if we added them all up. I'm 1 1/2 years post diagnosis, mastectomy, chemo, and rads, and still here to drive everyone nuts and tell dirty jokes! (well, SOMEONE has to do it!)
We're all here for you and will be waiting to hear from you after surgery.
Good luck and lots of (((hugs)))
Just for the record, my drains were in for about 10 days. They were annoying, but not horrible (my bilat. mast & recon was almost 6 wks. ago).
I just turned 54 June 8, so we're about the same age.
Good luck this week. Stay busy, keep breathing, and try not to worry...and get lots of sleep (and if you're having problems sleeping, tell your doctor; mine prescribed an anti-anxiety med that did the trick!)
Take care,
Debi0
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