New to the group and two weeks out from Lumpectomy

[Guest guest]

My name is Lee Anne and I just had a lumpectomy on my left breast.

It was 2.5 cm and went to the chest wall. The surgeon removed a

mass the size of the palm of my hand. He also removed the sentinal

node. It was clear. They got clean margins.

My doctor is out of the country until next week and I have

questions. I spoke with someone from the American Cancer Society,

but I've still got questions. Mostly though, I just want to be able

to talk to someone who understands my fears and can let me vent.

I'm scared, basically because I don't know what is next. I do know

that I will be having radiation, but don't know when. The incisions

are giving me some problems. They both are very tender. The ACS

sent me a little pillow and I've currently got it stuck in my armpit

to help keep my skin for sticking together. There are a couple of

stitches that are sticking out. I can't get to them to trim them

off and since they are under the skin, I don't want to pull them out

with tweezers. So I'm dealing with that irritating my arm.

I know I'm complaining and I don't mean to. I just can't seem to

get comfortable and am open to any suggestions. I'm large breasted

and wear a sports bra constantly. Letting these puppies lose brings

tears to my eyes! The weight of that breast pulling against the

incision.... well....

I've got a wonderful support system with friends, but my family will

not talk to me about this. Whenever they ask how I'm doing and I

tell them, the subject is changed. I'm single and live with my

mother, sister and niece. I just want to talk to someone who will

listen to me. Hopefully I can find that here. Also, if anyone

knows of online meetings, please let me know.

Thank you!

Lee Anne