Surgery in June 2021

AC602

My surgery is scheduled for June 15th and my anxiety is with me almost constantly. I am having a single mascetomy and planning to have reconstruction. I am told it can occur at the same time. Still have to have a CT chest scan, meet with the surgeon and next week with the plastic surgeon. Will know more by the end of the month, but the waiting, not knowing and fear of the surgery are really, really hard! I would love to hear from others about how they are coping with their pre-surgery anxiety. Thanks

Monarchandthemilkweed

I just had my surgery on Monday. The waiting is the hardest part I think. The surgery went really well and I’m recovering well so far. What I found most helpful was getting a therapist. My nurse navigator helped find one who works with people with cancer. She really has helped me through the initial shock and anxiety.

You will be ok. One step at a time. One day at a time.

AC602

Thanks so much monarchandthemilkweed! I am definitely trying to keep it a day at a time. Have a good therapist who suggested a support group. Called the clinic today to see if there is one at the clinic or if they are aware of any in the community. The waiting IS the hardest part. Trying to stay positive and busy. Good luck with your continued recovery!

Monarchandthemilkweed

yes staying busy is helpful. I think once you get more of these tests done and a plan you will feel better. It was a rollercoaster ride for sure. Lots of ups and downs. Between diagnosis and surgery it was about 2 months. That was hard for me. But I did therapy. I journaled a lot. Read and researched. When I arrived for surgery I felt calm and ready. Seeing my breasts for the first time after surgery was ok honestly. I wasn’t too upset. I was actually pleasantly surprised. I have tissue expanders in and I can already see the shape of the reconstructed breasts and I like it so far. I can imagine how they will look. I’m awaiting final pathology reports. They don’t think I’ll need chemo or radiation but won’t know till after the final pathology comes back. They took two lymph nodes and have to test those. Hoping they are clear.

AC602

It is so reassuring to hear about your positive experience. Also glad to hear that you are having reconstruction and are feeling positive about that as it makes me feel encouraged. I agree that once I have my final CT scan and meet with the surgeons, I’ll feel better. Got connected to a monthly support group through the clinic today. Also using Caring Bridge to journal and connect with family and friends who have been wonderfully encouraging and staying in touch. Thanks for being in touch.