Recently Diagnosed
Taking it One Day at a Time
Breast Friends extends our condolences for your recent diagnosis. That being said, we also want you to know that even though cancer is serious and some will not survive, the rate of survival is on the increase and in many cases the disease is not only treatable but curable. We are here for you.
By taking this diagnosis one day at a time, you will be able to manage the emotional and physical maze ahead of you. Reaching out for help, connecting with others who have won this battle, and understanding that this is a process, will help you with the day to day waves of emotions you will face.
When diagnosed with cancer, feelings of anger, denial, sadness, guilt and many other feelings are experienced. While many of these are normal coping mechanisms, it is important to recognize when it may be more serious. If you are struggling with extreme sadness, please call you doctor and get a referral to a licensed counselor. If you need encouragement, please call Breast Friends. You will be connected to a volunteer who has been through a similar experience and can share her journey with you. Many women feel inspired, encouraged and have a renewed sense of hope when they get off the phone with our volunteers. We are here to help.
If you have received the call, you understand. If you have gotten the call that the doctor wants to talk to you about your recent mammogram, or to say they need more films or more tests, that’s when the heart skips a beat and then races for the next few days until you can get in to see the doctor and either confirm your worse fears or abolish them. The waiting game is the worst time to live through, and if you know someone who has been diagnosed, the anxiety doubles. Time seems to drag.
The “what ifs” creep into your head and
Communicating with your doctor is very important. Even though we understand the importance of speaking openly and honestly with your physician, there may be times you feel embarrassed, reluctant, or at a loss for words during an office visit. It is your right and responsibility to be your own best health advocate. Unfortunately, during this highly emotional and traumatic time you may need some help to get all your questions answered.
Be prepared! Write down questions and discussion topics and
When diagnosed with breast cancer, feelings of anger, denial, sadness, guilt and many other feelings are experienced. These are coping mechanisms and there is no way of knowing which of these you will experience or in what order, but all are normal. Feelings can change from day to day, hour to hour, or even minute to minute. Embrace these feelings and share them with those that love you. Remember too, that they have their own fears and emotions about your diagnosis. Experiences and reactions are unique. While it’s natural to compare yourself to other breast cancer patients; remember, every one is different. What is comforting to one person may not be comforting to another. Journaling is one way people find to express their emotions. Speaking to a professional social worker is appropriate if these feeling are prolonged or exaggerated.
Some of the emotions
Being a survivor is state of mind.
by Sharon Henifin, Co-Founder
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I immediately opted to become a survivor. That was how I chose to deal with the unfamiliar, crazy place I found myself that scary day after returning home from the doctor. Obviously, this is
The meaning of the word Survivor
by Carol Misrack
During the month of September and October we all heard about Breast Cancer Survivors. Last week I was talking to a friend when she told me that she was going to put on her warm PJ’s and get a tall glass of wine. I then asked what was the factor that brought her to this self-indulgence? Her response was that she had survived a horrendous day at her office. Her answer left me with many quizzical thoughts.
