The beast is back

[2dejavu2]

Hello...so I'm 43 and this is my second ride on the cancer train...trying to do it all a bit differently this time: less "on my own" more...team spirit?

Maybe I feel like I need a little extra support because there's been a few other curve balls recently and I'm already a bit exhausted.

I've got a mastectomy and reconstruction on Wednesday with other breast augmentation...I've had radiation 4 years ago and I dense scar from the lumpectomy so the chance of my boob falling off is meant to be high...anyone got any tips for helping the blood supply post op??

Also, I confess, a tad freaked out about the surgery. In 2007 I had a surgery that went a bit wrong...the worst of it being that I woke up during the surgery and then also had a horrible d time in recovery where I woke up cuffed to the bed...

So!! Wouldn't mind a few cheers and some happy go get em! As well as as many successful stories as possible to help subside some of this fear...

New here...not sure if this was an epic rant?!?

[Lainey66]

Hi there 2dejavu2 - That is a raw deal getting a second ride on the train none of us want to be on. I had a double mastectomy on the 5 Jan 2016. I didn’t bother with the reconstruction, but went the tattoo route. Each to their own. I am so sorry to hear that you have to endure this all over again. You have beaten it once and I am sure you can do it again, this time as part of a team. I wish you all the best for your upcoming surgery and treatment and hope you have a much less traumatic experience. Sending much love and best wishes. Lainey66 xxx💐💐💐

[2dejavu2 in reply to Lainey66]

Aw, thank you Lainey66...that was just the right tonic for hopefully a good night's sleep.

There's a chance the reconstruction won't take anyway but I thought I'd like to have a go...feel like the impending menopause and missing boob a just too much to take when I've been vying for children and motherhood the last few years...

But I'm so proud of the women who opted out of the reconstruction and I will draw from your strength should tattoos be in the cards ...or next station

Love to you, and thank you

[Lainey66 in reply to 2dejavu2]

Sleep well and look forward not back. Set yourself a goal or two. It keeps you busy aiming for it. Big hugs xxxx

[Jowigs]

Hi 2dejavu2. Sorry to hear you’re heading into battle for the second time. You’ve done the right thing by seeking support. This is the only place I come to as I was told to stay away from internet horror stories and this forum is so supportive and encouraging. Welcome! I’m sure, after last time, the hospital will make absolutely sure everything goes according to plan. I had a single mastectomy. I decided against reconstruction but only because I wanted the quickest recovery I could have, and I really wasn’t bothered about being boobless! My op went very smoothly. I recovered incredibly quickly and never even had to take any of the 100s of painkillers they gave me! I’m sure it’ll be a different, much better, experience for you this time. Take care. Xx

[Bagrat]

What a pain having to get sorted out again. I'm sure knowing your previous experiences they will take particular care. I found that using a guided imagery tape in which you spend time imagining being calm on admission day and then the successful outcomes was very helpful.

[carolinenailsea]

I am very sad to read of your recurrence. Given your past experience it is no wonder you feel freaked out. I hope the surgeon and anaesthetist know all about the horrible time you had so they can make sure there is no repeat. I am sorry to hear that you have had some curved balls recently. Life can sometimes be unbearably tough and no one deserves to be battered so badly. Best of luck for Wed. I will be thinking of you and sending lots of positive thoughts your way. My story is nothing compared to yours but it is a positive story. Diagnosed with agressive breast cancer in january but following 9 months treatment I am clear and feeling really good. Here's to a total victory for you over the horrible beast. xxxx Caroline

[Hidden]

Sounds like you had the most awful time, don’t no quiet what to say, other than good luck and I hope it all goes well for you., my experience was a complete walk in the park compared to yours.

Good luck.xxx

[Jennymary]

Sending good luck wishes for Wednesday xxxx

[anne-57]

Sorry to hear you are going through this a second time but there are some positives. I was diagnosed twice in five years and I definately handled things differently second time round.

I found that techniques, support systems and information was much much improved second time round. This meant I was treated as an individual and given more opportunities to ask questions and felt more in control. I looked for support rather than just trying to grit my teeth and get on with it.

For me the challenges post op were lymphoedema and chronic fatigue. I sought out support in dealing with both and they are now almost gone.

My best advice is to try to ask questions until you feel reassured and can push your previous experience back into the past. By Thursday you will have started your recovery. Take it slowly, do your physio exercises regularly, say yes to offers of help (the helper gets a boost too) and rant on here as much as you need to.

It's not a great experience (understatement of the year), but you have this. You will get through. None of it lasts forever no matter how it feels at the time.

Much love and positivity coming your way. 😘

[Hidden]

Best wishes for Wednesday🙏

[KPKaren]

I am so sorry to hear that you are having to go into battle a second time. After your previous experience, I am sure that the surgeons and their team will take good care of you. I cannot imagine what you have already been through. You are a strong lady and you will get through this.

My surgeon had a few issues with my veins during the op, but luckily, my new boob survived.

I have had a slow and steady recovery. It has taken a while for my wounds to heal, but 12 weeks after my left-sided mastectomy and DIEP reconstruction, I am feeling almost back to normal. I've started to work from home and try to get out every day for a walk.

Ask any and every question when you see your surgeon. I usually write my questions down beforehand, in case I go blank when I'm in hospital. This sounds like a silly thing to say, but don't be nervous about telling them if you are not happy about something and make sure you feel as relaxed as possible before you go to the theatre.

Look forward to Thursday, when you can start your recovery. Ask your family and friends to visit and bring you some lovely treats.

I wish you all the very best for tomorrow. I'm sending you love and positive thoughts xx