I need advice - Cancer: Breast Message Board

eal · 01-25-2006, 11:39 PM

My mother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer around Thanksgiving and just after the New Year had her left breast removed. She is recovering so well and will not be needing Chemo or radiation or any further surgeries (God willing). The whole process seemed so quick to me. It was like a magic trick: Now she's sick, now she's not. In addition to her recovery she is helping my father recover from a stroke that occurred at the same time as her diagnosis.

I am her only daughter and the only other women in the family. I feel as though I should be helping her, but I don't know what to do. When I've asked her only complaints have been regarding pain due to her prosthesis. I was hoping that someone would be able to give me some advice. What was helpful to you? or what did you do for someone that was helpful?

I love my mother so dearly and I'm just afraid that she is trying to spare me anxiety by saying that she is okay. I know she's not falling apart, but there must be something I can do.

(Also, if anyone knows of a solution to the prosthesis problem I'm sure she would appreciate it. She's been complaining about pressure and rubbing against her still healing stitches)

Thanks

Pamsulli · 01-27-2006, 06:48 AM

Bless You!!!

You sound like the sort of daughter every mother should have.

I have an only daughter and when I had breast cancer she helped just by being there. Her love along with the love of my husband supported me and gave me the courage to endure.

I am sure your mother tries to protect you from the cruelty of this disease as I did my daughter but it sounds as if you are a loving and caring person and that is really strong medicine.

I hope your mother continues to make a good recovery, she is very lucky to have you, keep strong, my thoughts are with you all.

Pam

eal · 01-27-2006, 08:16 PM

Thank you Pam.
It is very sweet of you to share with me. I wish you all the best.
Be well, eal

girlwondering · 01-31-2006, 03:56 AM

My mom, too, was diagnosed with breast cancer around Thanksgiving (of 1998) and had her mastectomy on January 6th, 1999. I know she tried to "spare me" of the anxiety throughout her treatment--she sometimes wouldn't even tell me when she suspected the cancer had returned.

All you can do as a daughter is be there and try to help her find the right answers to questions. And support her. At least that's what I found I could do for my mother.

Good luck to you...She must be very happy to have you...so caring...as her daughter!

Karie

eal · 02-01-2006, 11:11 PM

Thanks for the advice, Karie. It's always good to hear from other people who have gone through similar things and figured out what to do. Thank you for your well wishes. I know my mom is happy to have my support and I hope I can do for her what you did for your mother.
- eal