New to the forum, would like some advice...please?

NotThereYet

Hello, my name is Wendy. My situation, or how I got here is different...but I hope you'll be so kind and include me in this forum as I'm struggling and feel you all might have some words of wisdom. I had a double mastecomy 2 years ago. I did not have cancer, however. 20 years ago, for cosmetic reasons I had breast implants. Long story short...they became to be a nightmare, I was also diagnosed with Juvenile Type 1 Diabetes (an autoimmune disease and very rare, especially for an adult diagnosis) 2 years ago, going into a diabetic coma weighing only 80 lbs and nearly died. I had to have both my implants removed and all my natural breast tissue as well due to infection, etc...it was a total double masectomy, although we were able to save my nipples. I didn't do reconstruction afterwards. I've met with a few Seattle based Reconstruction Surgeons, think I'm going with Dr. Welk, and will begin the reconstruction. He's thinking, fat transfer from back, expanders and breast implants. I apologize as I don't know all the terminology here. I'm excited to start the process.

However, from a woman's standpoint, how do we cope with this. I'm a single woman, how does one date, even approach the issue. OMG, this feels so overwhelming. For the past two years, I was mainly focused on trying to manage my Type 1 diabetes, getting on an insulin pump, etc...so I had no desire what so ever to date. I feel horrified in the whole process.. I feel depressed and that I'm going to just end up alone. Can you please share with me your experiences in terms of this, mens' reactions...intimacy, etc...?

Thank you so much!

Englishmummy

Hi Wendy,

I can't answer your questions but I am pretty sure someone will be along shortly, just didn't want you hanging out alone for too long! This will bump you up and maybe someone can chime in?

Moderators

Hi Wendy-

We understand your concerns, it can be very overwhelming to think about dating and intimacy after undergoing such an experience. We want to direct you to our Singles with Breast Cancer forum. Although you don't have breast cancer, you share some of the same concerns about entering the dating pool after a mastectomy and reconstruction, and some of the ladies in that forum might have some insight for you that you will find helpful.

The Mods