Breast Cancer Support Group

Hi and welcome, don't worry if this group is a little slow. I don't know really but my mum is planning to take 3 weeks off after her double mastectomy to recover. But it all depends on the individual and if they have any complications etc. My mum is halfway through her chemo and still working. Like you she can do work from home. Her employer has been understanding. I think most reasonable employers will be understanding if you are willing to try your best for them, they will cut you some slack. Have a chat with your employer as soon as you can. Find a quiet time and request a private space away from computers, phones and people intruding so you can have their full attention. Write what you want to say beforehand so it is clear in your head. Are you a member of a trade union? If so talk with your rep about what you are entitled to in terms of sick leave and pay.

You can't help having these health conditions. Sometimes things just happen. And once there is one stressful period, and your immune system is low, then other things can attack it. I would say speak to your doctor and make a big effort to be as healthy as you can with diet and exercise. Look after yourself as much as possible.

Is there anyone who can help you like friends or family? Not financially but emotionally. If not then I would keep a helpline number handy for a cancer charity and come on here as much as you need to. The charity could also help with financial advice too, I am sure you aren't the only one whose cancer has caused them financial worries.

Let us know how you are getting on.

Hi, Mermaid. I was dx with cancer in my right breast, but opted for a double mastectomy, too. I was in the hospital for 2 nights. After arriving home, I was sore for about a week, but the pain meds really helped and I was able to live pretty normally. (Just no heavy lifting because they took some lymph nodes on right side.)
Much luck to you!

I just had a double mastectomy on May 18th, i also had expanders put in and wound up back in surgery the next day because one the the expanders slipped out from under the muscle, and i was still home in 4 days, and back to work in 2 weeks. I work as a makeup artist and I am on my feet all day and use my arms alot and was quite concerded due to the lack of mobility you have. I was quite sore, but i pulled it off. You'll be fine, just get as much rest as you can while your off and listen to what the doctors tell you. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Best of luck to you with your double mastectomy. Don't worry yourself about being numb and not having cried. This hits all of us differetly. It doesn't mean you are going to fall apart later. If you should fall apart later, then give yourself permission to grieve, for as long as it takes.

It sounds to me like you are keeping an eye on yourself and dealing with what needs to be done. Take the time off after your surgery to allow yourself to heal emotionally as well as physically.

Come here as often as you need with any questions you might have. There is usually someone here who can relate to you and where you are in your recovery. I am sure you will surprise yourself at how well you cope with all of this. You sound like a strong woman, so hang in there and don't worry about having the 'correct' response to your diagnosis and treatment. Whatever response you have is the correct response for you.

Be well.

- Diane

I'm sorry about your recent diagnosis. I was diagnosised in Oct. 08, but I had a lumpectomy, so I don't have any advice about a mastectomy. However, I do wish you well. Welcome to this group. Chris

I had a single mastectomy in October. I was back to most light activities in about 10 days. I did find that my BP meds (lamictal) interacted with the anesthesia in a surprising (but harmless) way. I was high as a kite when I woke up, and stayed high for nearly a week. I didn't crash from the high, either, I just slowly returned to a more normal mood. I just wanted to give you a heads-up, since it was pretty dramatic.

I was able to hold it all together through the surgery and treatment, but the full weight of it hit me lately, as I am trying to get my life back in order. Journaling really helped me.

Take care.

Please come here as often as you need to or feel like it. This is a great place to come while you heal. Anything you put out here will be reviewed, accepted, and there is probably someone here who knows exactly where you are coming from and what you need. I have found the people here to be warm, caring, and incredibly helpful.

Best of luck to you inyour recovery.

- Diane