Paralyzed.
I was just diagnosed on Friday morning. The rest of the day, I felt almost energized, like "let's do this." But then Saturday came and I was weepy. And now today. I'm just a lump of nothing. I'm finding it hard to do anything and feel like depression is setting in. For those of you who have been here, I would so appreciate your insight. This is normal, right? Hoping that my appointment on Thursday with the multi-specialty team will help give me some direction.
Comments
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I'm so sorry you find yourself here. It's a great community and you'll get lots of support from people who "get it". I know it's hard at the beginning but I promise once you know the full picture and plan you'll feel better. I had horrible panic attacks after my diagnosis. Don't hesitate to ask for something to help if you need it. You canbeat this!
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This is normal, but that does not make it easier. I had to get a prescription for a sedative from my primary care doc, to avoid falling apart in public, and to sleep.
Talk to her ASAP, like tomorrow AM first thing, to see if you would be eligible.
We are so, so sorry you are here, but tell us more as you learn, so we can try and help. This forum is sanity-saving
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Thank you so much for your encouragement. I know what you mean about falling apart in public. One of my errands yesterday was to go buy some comfy bras and lounge wear for post-surgery that is imminent. Turns out I can't do that without weeping.
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Yes, totally normal: it’s like those famous 'stages of grief' people talk about: denial, anger etc. You can go back and forth between them. There is relief in getting a firm diagnosis after waiting for the imaging/biopsy appointments but then you realize the loss (of health, body image) that is occurring and so sadness is inevitable.
Taking a look at your profile and earlier posts, it appears that you are fairly young perhap pre-menopausal which means that your team should allow an opportunity for genetic counseling and testing. If a mutation is found, it may influence your treatment decisions. Go ahead and update your signature with more details as they are revealed.
It will feel better once you have a plan in place. Many of us have walked this road already and can offer help. You are wise to be educating yourself and reaching out for support!
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this is normal, unfortunately. Once you have a plan in place, you will feel more in control. In the meantime, there's no harm in asking for an anti-anxiety med. it truly does make a difference, and also helped me sleep.
Wishing you all the best.
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Same here. I logged in and see you've written the Post I wanted to write. Thank you. I was diagnosed last week. Figured I could handle it if it was treatable. Now the realization of what I'm in for and how life is permanently changed is hitting me. Also fear. And the waiting to find out what Stage I'm in, etc. Family and friends are all saying how I'm so brave and a fighter - but it looks to me like everyone else in this forum is braver than me.
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We are not braver - we have just had longer to get used to the 'new us'
It is a journey, and as you learn more about your treatment and options, you should come to terms with it all. This is a great place to vent, inquire, get a chuckle and lots of support. By all means look into anxiety meds, even just for the short term. Wishing you health and healing! j
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Pal buddy, Janky is right on all counts. It’s very early days for you so it’s bound to be overwhelming. Over time you will not believe the awesome strength you’ll gain. For now it’s normal and fine to be scared. One step at a time, you’ll get there. Make good use of the boards and reach out anytime, we all have your back. Hope you find peace very soon
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