New to the Group

[Purplewoman1]

Hi, I'm new to the group.

Not easy to say I need help. I'm self sufficient I can do anything myself. Because I have had to.

But my anxiety of the unknown, I'm hoping the group communication will help.

Elaine

[Lulusue]

Hi Purplewoman1

I am also new here, only joined yesterday but I have had so many messages of support and welcome. It’s nice to be a part of something that you don’t have to explain why you feel the way you do. They just except that moods and emotions change and don’t judge you for it. What are you struggling with at the moment? It really helps to vent! Sending love and best wishes xxx

[Dimsdale18 Partner in reply to Lulusue]

Hi Lulusue,

Please read my response to Purplewoman1!!!

[Purplewoman1 in reply to Lulusue]

Thank you

[Dimsdale18 Partner]

A great resource is the SHARE Cancer Support breast cancer helpline. All of the volunteers are breast cancer survivors and can offer support because they have been where you are now. In addition to the Helpline, if you want specific information on your type of cancer, we have a peer matching service which allows us to match you with someone who has a very similar diagnosis and/ or treatment. You can reach out 7 days a week from 9:30 am to 9:00 pm. The number is" 844 ASK-SHARE or 844-275-7427. Our website has many accurate and updated information, support group contact information and educational resources.

sharecancersupport.org. You are not alone with SHARE.

[Rhwright12]

Hi Elaine! Welcome to the group! Feel free to ask anything u want. We are open to questions about anything. Sometimes u just need to talk to people who know what I are going through...😀

[Purplewoman1]

Thank you

[Fay-gonabokay]

I'm new today. I came to the group because of my anxiety of the unknown and my usual independence. I need a support system or group because I feel alone and vulnerable and have a lot of questions. I don't know a lot about my condition, I'm willing to learn and I know a lot of women have gone through this and been successful before so I know that we're going to be okay. But I want us to be good.

Fay

[gladudey in reply to Fay-gonabokay]

Hi Fay, This IS the right place to be. Our loved ones are there for us, but they didn't undergo Breast Cancer diagnosis and treatment. I was there 100% for my mom and aunts, but it was not the same, as when I was diagnosed. True, I wasn't as frightened as a woman with no family history! I learned the most important. We are in charge of our bodies, we have a say in decision making, we have to be fast learners and have to learn how to ask questions of our doctors. And if we don't think the doctor is there for us, it it time to seek a second opinion! 50 years ago there was only one breast cancer and one surgery and my mom had "Reach for Recovery". For many years now we have SHARE, we have trained and constantly informed and educated survivors on our HelpLine, to help newly diagnosed women. You are here BECAUSE you are independent! Good luck to you and participate in all medical decisions about your surgery and treatment. Keep a copy of all your test results. SHARE will always be here for you!!!! Gladys

[Jg1960]

HI Elaine, Welcome to the group, even if it's a group no one really want's to be a part of! But the support here is wonderful. I agree - the unknown is the scariest part of this entire journey. I think I'm driving my doctors crazy with all of the questions I ask, but they will have to get over it because I need to learn as much as I can to shed some light on the unknown - it is the only way I can see to get though it. Ask any question you can think of, don't worry about what anyone else thinks because there is no such thing as a stupid question. I find that writing them down as they come to me works well. I have a note book I bring to appointments with me that I keep all my questions and answers in. I have also started recording my appointments because no one is allowed to accompany me due to Covid. They were a little hesitant at first (because I think they are afraid of being sued) but I persisted and they finally agreed. So much information is thrown at you during these appointments that there is no way I could listen, take notes and retain important information simultaneously. A girls got to do what a girls got to do. I am also fiercely independent but there is nothing wrong with reaching out for and letting other help you. Positive thoughts going your way. Stay strong.

[Purplewoman1]

Thank you

[TMCinNYC]

Hi Purple (now Pink for soon to be survivor). I too an new, and newly diagnosed. I feel the same about anxiety, and everything you stated. I am nervous about side effects too. I just began seeking support. Nice two meet you.

[Purplewoman1]

Nice to meet you too.