CommunitiesSurgery and Recovery"How can I cope with recurring breast cancer after mastectomy?"

"How can I cope with recurring breast cancer after mastectomy?"

KW

Community Member

3 months ago

I had a double mastectomy on 4/1 this year. A few weeks later noticed 2 surgical abscesses on the left (non-cancer) side. Still dealing with one of them to this day. In May, before I was showering, I noticed some bumps on my right chest wall. Yep, it was cancer. I started 15 rounds of radiation 2 weeks ago. I have 6 more to go. About day 6 of radiation, I noticed some more bumps just under my right arm towards my back. More cancer. They’ve included that area in my radiation treatment and also switched my medication from Kisqali to Capecitibine. Hoping for a good outcome and no new lesions after my course of radiation. I thought the double mastectomy would be the end of it and I could move on. A wound vac, radiation, change in meds all are making this experience so difficult. Trying to stay positive and looking forward to a full healing. I just want to move on.

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9 comments
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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Recurring cancer after surgery can feel overwhelming and emotionally draining, especially when facing unexpected complications and treatment changes. Many people in this community have found that connecting with others who understand these challenges, focusing on one day at a time, and working closely with your care team can help provide both emotional support and practical coping strategies during this difficult journey.

3+ patients found this helpful

TW

Community Member

3 months ago

Praying for you. Stay strong 💪 we are warriors 🙏🏻

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BE

Community Member

3 months ago

Your experience lets the rest of us know the treatments are not always so clear cut as the professionals try to make us think. No one mentions all the possible side effects you may encounter.

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CH

Community Member

3 months ago

5 years breast cancer survivor here ... Now facing partial nephrectomy due to renal cell cancer. Fight on beautiful warrior!

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KW

Community Member

3 months ago

Prayers for you Christine. 🙏🏻

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KW

Community Member

3 months ago

Finished radiation yesterday. OMG! The burns under my arm are the worst! Hurts to wear a top.

CH

Community Member

3 months ago

Thank you, Karen. I feel your pain ... Radiation is not pleasant. I had a CT Lung Screen today. They found 2 suspicious spots. Don't know what to do now. Nephrectomy will continue as scheduled. I'm feeling very defeated today.

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KW

Community Member

3 months ago

Sending positive vibes Christine.

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SF

Community Member

2 months ago

I'm praying for you. You are a warrior and keep positive all this will help with your healing

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Recurring cancer after surgery can feel overwhelming and emotionally draining, especially when facing unexpected complications and treatment changes. Many people in this community have found that connecting with others who understand these challenges, focusing on one day at a time, and working closely with your care team can help provide both emotional support and practical coping strategies during this difficult journey.

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