Here I go again

jmar19

Hi all,

 I went through breast cancer about 3 years ago at the age of 28.  I had to have a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation.  I was doing good and have been on tomoxifen and then had an elective mastectomy and double reconstruction about a year ago.  I was suppose to have the second stage of my reconstruction last Friday, but they had to cancel the surgery.  They did some tests and found that the cancer is back, but this time they found some around my lungs, in my liver, and my bones.  I really don't want to have to go through chemo again.  I'm seeing my oncologist tomorrow to discuss the plan for treatment, but I'm sure that is what he's going to suggest.  I still want to have my surgery and I am currently out of work, but because I didn't actually have my surgery, I don't think my short-term disability will kick in.  I thought I was doing really well and wouldn't have to deal with this again.  My situation is very different this time.  I now work 2 jobs and I went back to college again.  I don't know how I'm going to handle all this and go through treatment.  The downfall is one of my job's is perdium, so if I don't work I don't get paid.  My other job is only 30 hours a week so I need both jobs to survive.  Also, the program I went back to school for is ending so if I don't do it now I will never be able to do it and this is something I have wanted for a long, long time.  I know I can't really make any decisions until I see my doctor tomorrow, but these are all the things that are rushing through my head since Thursday.  I am also really disappointed that I didn't have my surgery.  I have a tissue expander in one side and it's been in there for over a year and it's very annoying.  I am very frustrated and annoyed.  UHG!!!

Jen

Aimamia

Hi Jen,

I am so sorry to hear your news.  I can tell you that I am a cancer survivor dealing with my second occurrence as well.   Mine is a bit different in that I had Hodgkins Disease stage IV when I was 12/13.  Now at 36 I am dealing with breast cancer.  I can't imagine what you are struggling with.  What I can say is, it is good to get it all out, and this is the place to do it.  Hang in there.

Hugs, Elle

Emily2008

Hi Jen,

Just came across this post and wondering how you're holding up in the face of this termendously crummy news.

BethNY

Jen, I just found this post now... I'm so sorry you're dealing with so much.

Has your onc decided on a plan of attack yet? I know you want that T/E replaced with an implant, but it looks like you're going to ahve to wait longer, OR beg your onc to let you have the exchange surgery, heal, and then start chemo.

I know it's hard working two jobs, and trying to deal with all of this again, so I just wanted to let you know we're all here for you-

please let us know how you are.