Connect
← Return to Emotional health after cancer: How are you doing really?
Discussion
Emotional health after cancer: How are you doing really?
Cancer: Managing Symptoms | Last Active: May 23 9:53am | Replies (323)Comment receiving replies
I can totally relate with everyone's comments here. But I have one more emotion -- guilt. You see, I was diagnosed with DCIS & IDC BC in Nov 2024, had my breast removed in Dec 2024, clean edges and tumor less than 8mm. Lymph Nodes clear too. So my BC experience lasted 2-3 months. My best friend has BC and it is much worse and invasive. So I don't even feel like I can say I had BC because mine was so non-eventful compared to so many women. And I struggle with all the other emotions folks indicate on this site, but then I feel like 'what right so I have to feel this way', given my BC was so 'quick'. Anyone else had a similar cancer experience and then the guilt?
Replies to "I can totally relate with everyone's comments here. But I have one more emotion -- guilt...."
I had stage 0 in 2023 and just had radiation. No tamoxifen, 6mm no lymph node involvement. Did you still need to take AI’s with your breasts removed? I am wondering if I should get a double mastectomy for future worry?
Connect
I think it was Shakespeare who said "comparison is odious" and I take that to mean trouble in life is not a competition--we all suffer and do the best we can. I can sympathize with what you are feeling. Two and a half years ago I got a BC with a very dire prognosis. Well, a close friend was going through a recurrence and is now Stage 4. I'm still doing fine. I was pessimistic and she was optimistic. But here is the thing--I love her and I'd be happy for her if the roles were reversed. BC really has a huge range. I don't feel like I have everything in common with every woman who has it. But I'm guessing your friend loves and needs you--and that you are a support in any case. We don't have to have identical experiences to support and to care. Underneath your guilt there might just be an essential kindness and empathy which I'm getting from your post!