Coming to terms with cancer returning ... - My Cancer Community

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Coming to terms with cancer returning after 11 years

Beech-Tree profile image
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Hello - I'm new here. I had primary breast cancer 11 years ago and got a lot of support from Penny Brohn UK then. I thought I'd beaten it but it has returned with a vengeance - Secondary breast cancer, Stage 4 and incurable this time. It's quite a shock and feels very different to the first time. Am permanently on chemo now. So I'm trying to get back into the Penny Brohn network. I don't seem to be able to be so positive this time.

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Beech-Tree profile image
Beech-Tree
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Springiebounce profile image
Springiebounce

Hi, I have just read your post and I am in the exact situation as you. Was discharged from Oncology after 5 years, only to be told 4 months ago that a little cancer cell has taken up residence in my lung from the primary site in my throat. Incurable, symptom control only going forward. Initially I was absolutely devastated and had serious thoughts about ending my life there and then, but, no I wasn't going to do that. I feel it is different now as I know the outcome of this diagnosis, whereas before I was continually thinking, I hope the treatment worked and I am now calm about it. I am on meds from my GP to keep my emotions in check and I'll tell you why I feel calm. It's because I have now had the chance to organise everything. I am a Mum, Wife, Daughter, Auntie, Sister and friend and I do not want to cause anyone that I love any more sadness than I need to. So, all my paperwork is in order, I have written sheets with important names and numbers on for my Husband eg. Dog Groomer, Dentist, Car Mechanic etc. I have also contacted a Funeral Director and have got a price and sorted out my Order of Service. Nobody knows I have done it.Now, strangely I feel ok. I have sorted everything that I feel I need to sort and now I am just taking each day as it comes with the ones I love knowing that they will be ok. This has been the right thing to do for me, I know it's not for everyone, but it made me feel better. I wish you all the best xx

Beech-Tree profile image
Beech-Tree in reply to Springiebounce

Thanks for replying. I recognise what you've been doing. I've done the same and I agree that it does give a certain peace of mind. Might I gently suggest that you those you love that you've done all this - they might be worrying about how they'll know what you want done. All the best to you too.

rustyfairy profile image
rustyfairy in reply to Springiebounce

Poaitive action, taking life forward and good suggestions we should all consider, I wish you all the best 😘

rustyfairy profile image
rustyfairy

Peggy Brohn great - they have the ability to make life seem larger than the tumour - my best wishes to you❣️

Beech-Tree profile image
Beech-Tree in reply to rustyfairy

Thank you!