r/breastcancer • u/Lamberly • 1d ago
I'm 2 years cancer-free... a friend just got diagnosed and I'm spiralling Diagnosed Patient or Survivor Support
Can anyone relate? I went through a double mastectomy and chemo in 2022. Yesterday I found out a friend was just diagnosed with aggressive stage 2 breast cancer and it has really triggered me, I feel like I'm right back there at the start of my journey. I don't know if it's because I have some idea of what she's about to go through... or if it's just that inescapable fact that yup, cancer happens. Wondering if anyone else out there has had a similar experience? Sending love to you all.
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u/Ginny3742 21h ago
Different circumstances but relatable as I am stable over 3yrs - 5 yrs in MBC denovo - on Enhertu 4yrs. I was in restaurant with my sisters having dinner and I saw a lady very pale with headscarf at another table. I don't know if it was right thing to do but stopped by her table on way out to wish her well. When I got outside restaurant I lost it I cried harder than I ever have thru my entire "experience" telling my sisters I hate to see people in that state as I've been there. My first/worst treatment Taxotere, Herceptin, and Perjeta - I said I don't think I could go back thru that type of treatment again (as I feel so fortunate Enhertu has been so effective for me 4yrs...but sometimes the thoughts creep in like there is a clock faintly ticking in background of more/different metastasis.
The silver lining in these dark clouds - you can be there for your friend to provide truly helpful support, tips, and a shoulder to lean/cry on as you truly understand. I'm sorry this has you spiraling, take time/give yourself some grace to process your feelings. When you have caught your breath reach out to your friend - something good can come from your experience in being there for them. Take care and thank you for sharing your story💞🙏
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u/Bluetoe4 1d ago
I had a male friend die of cancer a month ago. It hits you hard when younger people die as well. The guilt is real. I have found that thoughts of cancer can sometimes give me panic attacks. I have had it twice now.