Community

Hi I'm on tamoxifen. I take a low dose 5mg a day and my doctor is happy me doing this. I was coping v well for about 3 months but last couple of weeks sweats and hot flushes have really kicked in. The sweats wake me several times a night so I'm tired and getting low mood now as a result. My risk of recurrence is v low but I wanted try stay on tamoxifen as I feel better knowing I'm taking it. I'm just wondering has anyone had side effect symptoms l like this improve over time. I'm close to stopping taking it as I'm so tired all the time and feel I've no energy tp do the things I like doing. Any advice v welcome. If I thought it might improve I would stick at it maybe.

Hi I recently discovered a lump under my arm, I went my GP and she advised a private Ultrasound and mammogram in St Jame's, she said it could take up to two weeks, two days later, I got a call to book me in for the following week, the fast turnaround (however greatful I am) has me very anxious, any advice or is this normal practice, thank you in advance

Hi as it is Sunday I cannot contact the clinic in CUH, I have tested positive for covid today. Meant to start my 2nd week of radiotherapy tomorrow morning. I presume I cannot go? I tested negative on Thursday AM, felt poorly all week though. Any advice appreciated. Will try clinic first thing in the morning but I need to travel from kerry to Cork so its all very stressful.

I could not see myself surviving my masectomy operation. Today I am 4 weeks post op. The physiotherapist said I could go back driving today, which I really wanted to do to get my independence back. However I got extremely upset after the short drive. My left breast is gone. The seat belt now does not sit right accentuating the fact I have no breast. I am struggling putting on a bra with the sponge insert, never mind the meltdown I had when the lady called to fit me for a prosthetic breast. 😭 is this normal? I'm really struggling with all this to be very honest.

Hi, I would like insights on this type of procedure for Breast reconstruction. I’m just wondering if anyone have gone through this. Can you share your own experience. I opted for a delayed breast reconstruction, I’m offered this type of procedure vs Implant. It would be very helpful if you can share …. Thanks ! Joy

Hi everyone. I am a 14 year Breast Cancer survivor. Following my diagnosis I quit smoking and really looked after my health. In 2020 I finished Tamoxifen after 10 years and life was good. In 2021 my partner of 29 years died very suddenly and traumatically and I witnessed the whole event. I had evere PTSD and started vaping to help with anxiety. I quit vaping last month but I am now scared that the vaping may cause my cancer to reoccur. My mammograms have being clear but I am still really worried. Does anyone vape years after diagnosis. Is there any test I can have to keep an eye on this. I know blood tests dont show Breast Cancer reoccurence, I would really like some advice on what I should do.

So I Finally got called for my mammograms and ultrasound over 3 months after 1st breast clinic appointment. I ended up having biopsies on the lump and a lymph node. Breast changes just keep coming :( lump increasing, skin dimpling and puckering, change in texture, unexplained cording and swollen lymph nodes… I was told I’d be called back in 2 weeks for results. I got appointment letter 3 days later but doesn’t mention to bring anyone. Is this a good sign do you think or was it just an automated appointment and a standard letter sent…. Can reports be done and discussed so quickly, in 3 days? Trying to stay positive 🙏🏼

Hi All, I have opted for delayed breast reconstruction because I wasn’t sure if I would require radiation post surgery as well as chemo. I was a candidate for oncotype dx and was hoping I won’t require chemo. However, results came back I would benefit chemo. I am currently on ACT chemo regimen, would complete on Jan next year. It would be of great help if anyone would give me tips about delayed breast reconstruction. My Breast consultant advise DIEP breast reconstruction vs implant. I need helpful tips to prepare me for this procedure , especially from those who have been through this. Thanks a lot! Kind regards, Joi

I'm struggling with the knowledge that everyone in my town will be aware of my situation..I know having breast cancer and being at the start of my journey should make me not care, but I deeply dread people other than my immediate family knowing. Everyone knows Everyone here and what they don't know they make up, my own brother in law would tell everyone and embellish the facts for shock factor and while I have wonderful friends I don't want any help right now as Im still trying to process everything. I'm quite private and feel more in control if no one knows ,so I can still go shopping or my kids school without looks and constant attention. Ireland is a small country so I'm aware that when I start radiation I'll probably meet people I know, but how do I still keep control and keep people at a distance without offending anyone. Sorry for the huge essay

Hi All, I'm starting TC Chemo on Wednesday. Just wondering how other people have got through it - were the side effects okay or bad? Also, has anyone getting this Chemo tried a cold cap? How did it work for you? Thanks, Helen