Today was my first full mammogram post-treatment.
Somehow, with the move from Minnesota —> Montana, my knee surgery and switching health insurance, I have been able to avoid this painful screening.
In 2024, one year after diagnosis and treatment, I consented to a one-sided mammogram. Sure, it was uncomfortable, but in previous years I had survived the squishing, so this time it was quick and the pain was tolerable. It did, however, lead to a big fundraising project (read more below), and I’m looking forward to our new mammogram robes arriving soon.
At almost three years post-diagnosis, I still have pain in two places in my surgical breast, and the thought of enduring a mammogram with such tender places in my body just seemed insurmountable. Knowing that when someone hugs me tightly, it causes pain, I anticipated the pressure from the mammogram to cause excruciating pain.
My oncology nurse practitioner offered some help: Tramadol.
She suggested experimenting with it prior to my appointment, and after taking one pill, the pain was still present. Very present. I made a decision: I would take two pills, bite the bullet, and simply push through the pain.
IT WORKED.
So now, we wait. As the hours pass by and the phone doesn’t ring, we get closer to being declared “still cancer-free” for another six months.
My story is not unique.
Most women have something that lingers, and other survivors have shared ongoing complications post-treatment:
Depression
Weight gain
Dealing with hair loss and regrowth
Subsequent surgeries
Oral chemo meds
Adapting to implants
Grief
For me and others, it can be healing to connect with another survivor. Someone who intimately and clearly understands what you have been through, even though each person’s journey is their own.
If you need someone to chat with, please private message me or comment below. If you are local here in Montana, our new BC Social Club will soon be meeting - join us! For those further away, I highly recommend contacting Firefly Sisterhood to get set up with a one-on-one peer mentor.
I have updated some of the other pages here at Joy Droplets. Please take a peek and share with anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment:
Peer-to-peer mentoring
Some fun things
My breast cancer blog
Breast cancer podcasts
Joy Droplets: Photo scripture cards for those facing breast cancer
Several organizations offer mentoring - click above to learn more.
For Fun
The day before I began radiation therapy, my lovely hair stylist helped me infuse some joy into what would be a long, tedious process. As the purple faded, I knew I was getting closer to the end of this phase of treatment.
We all need more joy in our lives, and I’ve crafted a list of some ways to bless yourself or others during a difficult time. Read more above.
Writing helped me process my diagnosis and treatment, and also provided a way for loved ones to stay updated on my situation. Everything started with the post above.
Podcasts
This podcast is for breast cancer patients who feel isolated or sad and want a friend but don't feel up to talking with anyone. With Sarah and Beth, you'll get friendship and validation with zero expectations or judgment.
Faith Under Fire produces an excellent podcast that covers a variety of topics. Click above for more info.
My new Photo Scripture Card Set: Joy Droplets. They are specifically designed for women facing a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, but can also be inspirational and encouraging for anyone facing physical health issues and limitations.
Looking for breast cancer resources or want to connect with other survivors? Visit our Community Page and Resource Library
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