Is there ever a time I forget I have Breast Cancer?

Thanks Chris. Techs reassured me that we the beam will not affect my heart as they monitor my breathing. First treatment was a bit long as imaging was required before first dose of radiation. Did ok however I am feeling tired with just that first treatment. I’m retired so I’m fortunate that I can relax and hang on the couch with the remote.

You can do it! And remember, if you can’t do it the first time, you’ll just have to do it anyway! lol! Maybe some deep breathing exercises will help. Good luck!

When I read this post I realized that now I have more mornings where I’m not thinking about cancer or even nights when I’m worried about different things. So yes! eventually this will go away . I was diagnosed in April 2024. I went through lumpectomy and radiation and I’ve been 7 months in hormone therapy. So far so good . I’m going with a therapist that is helping a lot .

Do a search for YouTube videos. Breathing during radiation. The first day I had terrible trouble with the breathing. So I went online. There are videos put out by at least 3 hospitals. I watched one with a male doc. Concentrate on pulling breath into your stomach. They put that belt/test thing on your tummy to monitor breaths. The belly button seemed to be a good spot for me. I concentrated on making my stomach rise and I also learned to press my tongue against the roof of my mouth closing the throat. (Keeps the air in) If at first you have to take a breath during a sweep, don't worry. The machine stops and then continues after you take another breath. You'll get it and be fine. Then the appts go faster. But the video was a tremendous help to me.

Thanks for the advice I’ll check out you tube. 2 sessions down and tech says I’m doing great🤞

My breast tumor was the right side, but I still had to hold my breath. Remember, what you want to do is expand you ribs--as opposed to sticking out your tummy. As others have said, your rad techs will help you. You can practice breath holding before your treatments. Good luck!

Or if you're told to stick out your tummy--do it. I didn't but who knows!