Changes After a Mastectomy

Undergoing breast cancer treatment can bring a lot of changes to your body.

One such treatment is a mastectomy which is the surgical removal of the breast. Depending on the surgery type, patients may have a complete, modified, radical, skin-sparing, or nipple-sparing mastectomy.

Patients might find it challenging to look at their bodies after the operation when this happens. In most cases, the breast area is likely to be bruised and swollen but will eventually improve.

While some women may not feel different after surgery, others do. The latter may find it difficult to accept their new body, which can affect their confidence and self-esteem. Some may even feel "incomplete" because they are self-conscious.

Fortunately, research says that people who confront the physical changes in their bodies sooner are more likely to find it easier to regain their confidence. If you need some help with getting used to your new body, here are some tips:

1. Stand in front of the full-length mirror, fully clothed. Name three physical traits you like about yourself.

2. Do the same exercise but this time wear your underwear. It may need time to get used to, but the point is to look at yourself neutrally—with zero judgment and expectations.

3. Try the same exercise but stand naked. Describe what you see and ask yourself why you feel awkward or uncomfortable.

4. Touch your scars or get used to the feel of your body. You have survived treatment. The scars are living proof you have made it despite the struggles. Your body may differ, but you are still alive, which is most important.

5. Talk to your doctor about possible breast reconstruction. Breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy may help women adjust to changes in their bodies faster. 

If you believe this is your best option, talk to your doctor about the procedure. Remember, however, that reconstructing cannot bring back the sensations of your breast and nipple, but they do help.

Takeaway: Getting used to a "new" body after a mastectomy can be challenging for some. However, these scars prove that you've become a survivor and still have hope for the future. If you need help and support, contact your doctor or join a breast cancer support group.

What To Do After Beating Breast Cancer

Being a cancer survivor changes you—both physically and emotionally. When your treatment ends and your support group return to a more typical life, you may feel a combination of complex emotions.

Some of these emotions you feel may be fear that cancer may come back, sadness that you won't see much of the healthcare team who cared for you, joy with beating the beast, and anxiety of the unknown future.

Whatever you're feeling, it's completely normal. After all, you don't endure cancer treatment, beat cancer, and return to your regular routine like never before.

If you are feeling confused about what to do next, here are some things you may need to do even after beating cancer:

1. Care for your body.

It's essential to keep yourself healthy. This step means having a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables, having a regular exercise routine, and making sure you have a steady sleep schedule. While these are simple steps, keeping yourself consistently healthy helps keep your body in tip-top shape.

2. Go to all your follow-up appointments.

Even if you worry about the future or feel reluctant, you must go through your follow-up appointments. You can use this time with your healthcare provider to ask any questions and ask for help like therapy or support groups.

3. Be open about your emotions.

If you decide to go to therapy or join a support group, it helps to be honest with your thoughts and feelings. Keeping your feelings inside can be a source of stress and can lead to depression or other issues.

However, suppose you're not ready for therapy or to join a support group. In that case, you can start journaling or pick up other creative outlets to express your emotions honestly.

4. Keep yourself busy.

Sometimes we get too stuck in our heads that we forget to look at the world around us. One way to pull ourselves out of a negative funk is to keep ourselves busy, whether it's through creative projects, going for a walk in the park, or meeting up with friends.

Takeaway: Surviving breast cancer is a feat that should be celebrated. However, feeling conflicting feelings is also expected because a person may worry that cancer will return. Fortunately, you can manage these fears and anxieties by caring for yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually.

The Importance of Early Screening For Breast Cancer

According to Mayo Clinic, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among women in the United States and the most common cancer worldwide. Considering the cancer crisis on a global scale, we all must take the necessary precautions to secure our health.

Fortunately, many ways exist to reduce one's risk of breast cancer. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and choosing the proper birth control are steps we can take as early as today. Additionally, people undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may need to be cautious and ask their doctor about the possible associated risks. If you have a family history, you must be more careful than others.

Another way to ensure we stay risk-free is to schedule regular mammograms. A mammogram is a breast X-ray that doctors use to detect signs of breast cancer in an early stage. Both men and women should have periodic mammograms. However, experts recommend that men and women get annual exams by age 40. While it's uncommon for men to get mammograms, a doctor may recommend it if a person has a genetic mutation that increases their likelihood of the condition.

Breast cancer screening is imperative because it detects early signs of breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, early detection of breast cancer, which doesn't spread, helps increase a person's survival rate to a whopping 99%! This news is incredibly hopeful because it gives people a chance to take charge of their health and live through the condition with hope. Considering that we're in a time of faster developments in modern medicine, people have a higher survival rate than ever.

If you need help scheduling a mammogram, you may want to consider asking your doctor when you can start taking regular annual mammograms. If you have a family history of members who had breast cancer, you may also need to ask your doctor how to reduce your risks. Remember, health is wealth, so never leave your health to chance!

Educating Kids About Cancer With Stories

Receiving a cancer diagnosis as an adult can be an overwhelming and shocking experience. The first thing that most people tend to do after the shock wears off is wonder how they will break the news to their loved ones, especially their children.

There are many reasons why talking to children about cancer is challenging. One reason is that cancer is a complex condition with no definite prognosis. Another is that, as adults, we're expected to handle things rationally instead of emotionally to avoid instilling fear in children.

However, children are a lot more perceptive than we give them credit. Even if we don't outright say we're worried or bothered, they can pick up on our feelings and wonder if they can do anything about it.

When this happens, it helps to be honest with the child. Being truthful can be painful, but it also lets the child know you trust them.

Nevertheless, it's also essential to remember that you must communicate in a way a child can understand. This step means avoiding overly complicated terms, getting to the point, and being patient when they ask questions or share their concerns.

Another way to help children understand the nature of cancer is through books and stories. For example, one book, "Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer," tells the story of a six-year-old girl who quickly learns her grandmother has breast cancer. The story brings up fears, questions, and misunderstandings from facing a medical challenge. With her family by her side, Jeannie Ann quickly learns what cancer can bring and why listening to our loved ones matter.

If you're trying to explain the nature of the disease to a child, consider educating them through stories instead. Once you read through the illustrated pages, you can ask your little one how they feel about the story and what questions they may have, and listen to their thoughts and feelings.

Repurposed Leukemia Drug May Help Prevent Secondary Breast

Secondary breast cancer is a severe occurs when a person's breast cancer has spread to other body parts. These places may include organs like the lungs, brain, and even one's bones.

The reason why secondary breast cancer is so severe is that it is incurable. At best, this diagnosis can be managed by reliving its symptoms and ensuring a person's quality of life stays constant. Fortunately, many patients with this diagnosis can still live fulfilling lives.

However, there is news that scientists are working to find a treatment course for secondary breast cancer. One of which involves using a drug for leukemia.

According to News Scientist, a repurposed drug used to treat leukemia shows promising results in treating secondary breast cancer.

Imatinib is widely prescribed to people who have chronic myeloid leukemia. In an experiment led by Frances Turell at the Institute of Cancer Research in the UK, administering Imatinib to mice with estrogen-receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer slows down the growth rate of secondary tumors.

ER+ breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer diagnosed. During experimentation, the effect of administering Imatinib helped prevent secondary breast cancer cells from spreading to other parts of the body.

Considering that secondary breast cancer is incurable, finding possible prevention of breast cancer cells spreading is a milestone that offers a lot of hope.

However, because it's in the initial stages of research, there is no telling whether this drug may be effective for human use.

It's also important to note that Imatinib has uncomfortable side effects like stomach and fatigue, making it a risk for a few. Still, there is hope, and as long as researchers continue to make progress, patients may finally have more options for treatment.

While there is little information on whether Imatinib may be a potential drug for breast cancer treatment, modern medicine is clearly on the path of finding newer and innovative ways to treat breast cancer.

- by Diane Davies, author, Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer

Ways to Cope Emotionally After Receiving a Cancer Diagnosis

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be an experience that changes a person's entire perspective and future. Once someone receives such heavy news, the person's emotions may range from disbelief, shock, anger, overwhelming sadness, denial, regret, and, hopefully, acceptance.

However, before reaching the "acceptance" stage, one must understand that one needs time to process these emotions at their own pace. Here are some tips for coping after receiving a cancer diagnosis:

1. Take Time to Process Your Emotions.

Allow yourself to feel your emotions without suppression or denial. When a person welcomes emotion without hesitation, dealing with it one feeling at a time becomes more manageable and less overwhelming.

2. Try to Learn More About Your Condition.

It may sound strange to learn more about cancer the minute you get the news. However, on a logical note, learning about one's condition can help someone slowly accept reality once the person understands what to expect in the future.

3. Get Some Time to Be Alone.

Sometimes, it helps to be alone and process one's emotions without distraction. However, it's also crucial to remember that one should never isolate themselves from their loved ones.

4. Share Your Feelings Honestly to Whoever or Whatever You Trust

Once one has accepted the reality of the situation, it may help to share these emotions with someone or something. Sharing one's fears and worries with their spouse, friends, or journal can help ease the burden one may unconsciously carry.

Bottomline: Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be devastating. However, it helps to remember that one still has a fighting chance for a long and healthy life. While it's natural to be fearful and anxious, remember that these are just feelings, not truths. If you're struggling with these emotions, please get in touch with your healthcare provider for adequate treatment asap.

- by Diane Davies, author, Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer

Reasons to Join a Cancer Support Group

A cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event for any person. As much as possible, doctors and health experts recommend that patients be given holistic care as they undergo treatment.

Holistic care is a treatment course based on the understanding that a patient has physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. While medications and physical treatments are essential, healthcare providers must also meet the patient's psychological and spiritual needs.

One way to meet a patient's emotional needs is by joining support groups. Many modern healthcare centers offer support groups for people in various situations or conditions, like a cancer support group.

Joining a cancer support group can be a great way to meet a patient's emotional needs. Here are some reasons why that may be so:

1. It allows people to share their feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental environment. A few people don't feel comfortable showing their vulnerabilities and fears to their family and friends. However, many participants are encouraged to do so in a support group because most encourage a judgment-free environment.

2. People can help others by providing company as encouragement. One of the best parts of joining a cancer support group is knowing everyone comes together for a common purpose. Whether it's sharing feelings about their diagnosis, talking about their recent chemo session, or just everyday idle chat—it's comforting to know that one is in the company of people who are also going through the same thing.

3. It reminds people that they are not alone. Joining a support group can be a great way to meet a person's emotional needs because it eases their anxiety. People who just received a cancer diagnosis may feel the need to isolate or withdraw from society. However, by joining an encouraging group, said person will always be reminded that they are not alone.

- by Diane Davies, author, Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer

How Children Can Provide Comfort to Cancer Patients

Loved ones who have just undergone a cancer diagnosis may experience varying emotions. During this sensitive period, doctors usually recommend that patients have a primary caretaker in their home (like a spouse) and a supporting network (i.e., friends and family).

For the latter, a support network can be a group of people of different ages. As long as they are important to the patient and are willing to help, they can become an integral part of a patient's care network.

In a way, young children can offer emotional support by showing they care. Some of these examples include the following:

1. Making cards or other types of gifts. Doing craft projects can be a great way to spend time with children. Providing them with tasks like making an encouraging card or a nice drawing, the patient may find their spirits lifted, while children may feel more helpful.

2. Provide a listening ear. Teaching children the art of listening can be a gift that ensures their success in relationships. When a person learns to listen, they show respect and care for the person who is talking. By letting children listen to a patient's stories and allowing them to ask questions, families may find that this simple act of communication can bring families closer.

3. Offer to tag along for shopping or other tasks.

Spending time together outside the home can be a great way to destress and add some exercise to your routine. Whether that activity involves going to the mall for shopping headscarves or getting some fresh air, bringing a child along can help you bond and grow closer. 

Bottomline: Children are more attuned to their emotions than we think. When a person takes the time to educate them on cancer and how it's treated, many will find that children can be one of the most important members of any cancer support network.

- by Diane Davies, author, Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer

Ways In Which Cancer Can Change Family Dynamics

Any person who receives a cancer diagnosis knows their life will change. After learning to accept such news, they may share their diagnosis with their loved ones.

The person's family who receives this news may also react similarly. After all, cancer is a serious condition and can change a person's life and relationship dynamics.

For the latter, here are ways in which cancer can affect family life:

1. It changes roles in the relationship.

Spouses or partners of people with cancer may immediately take on the person's primary caregiver role. Additionally, relationship dynamics like intimacy change or become less frequent because the person's health priorities come first.

2. It creates a shift of responsibilities.

Spouses or partners of people with cancer may encounter a set of responsibilities they are unfamiliar with. Aside from being a primary caregiver, the partner may also take on the role of advocate, homemaker, and breadwinner. These instances can cause stress for the person and even the relationship, especially since additional responsibilities can be overwhelming.

However, this instance can be avoided, provided both partners work on a more balanced support network. A couple can broaden their support network by asking for help from willing companions like family members and trustworthy friends. By adding more people, the primary caregiver can delegate tasks while ensuring the loved one maintains a wide social circle.

3. It changes future plans.

Cancer is a serious illness that brings an uncertain future. Plans for vacations, activities, and the like for a person and their family will change. When this happens, the family's priorities and budget may shift to ensuring the loved one stays secure while keeping the family afloat.

4. It can change a person's behavior.

A person's behavior changes when they receive life-changing news. This instance is especially true when a person gets a cancer diagnosis. However, because it's such a serious illness, family members and friends' behaviors also change.

In many cases, family members and friends may treat the person differently, or they start finding ways to live with it. In other cases, it may cause people to wonder about their future. Whatever the case, a cancer diagnosis undoubtedly strongly impacts many relationships.

Bottomline: However, it doesn't have to be hopeless. While specific dynamics and roles change, many can adapt to their situations with time and patience. Suppose you know a person who is currently undergoing the same crisis. In that case, it helps to give them some time to help come to terms with the diagnosis. Feel free to seek support from medical professionals as well.

Helpful Phrases That Offer Support to a Loved One with Cancer

A cancer diagnosis can be a life-changing event that can bring trauma and stress to the person. However, family members can be emotionally affected by the diagnosis too.

Nevertheless, after the diagnosed person has taken the time to accept said diagnosis, it may take a while to open up with their immediate family. When they do, it helps to offer a compassionate ear.

Here are some compassionate phrases to say:

1. "I'm sorry to hear you're going through this."

Offering sympathy is not a bad thing. This phrase shows that you care about the person's situation without making it about yourself.

People who say, "I know how you feel," may believe that such a phrase is empathetic, but it doesn't show that you're listening. If anything, it gives the impression that you are dismissing the person's plight and making it about you.

2. "I'm not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care."

It's okay to admit that we don't know what to say. After all, a cancer diagnosis is a scary experience that can change a person's life forever.

When that happens, it helps to tell someone that you care. Yes, the future is uncertain, and things may be stressful, but letting someone know you care about them can encourage them.

3. "If you'd like to talk about it, I'm here."

This one is a great phrase because it gives the person a choice. Since we all have different coping methods, we cannot force someone to share more information than they are ready to give. However, let them know we are prepared to offer a listening ear whenever they decide to make that choice.

4. "Please let me know how I can help."

This is another helpful phrase that provides the person with a choice. Instead of offering unsolicited help, we can offer the person an option on how we can play a part in their support group.

An essential factor to consider:

Avoid showing fake optimism or telling the person to stay positive. While it is true that positive thinking has benefits, we have to let people come to terms with their diagnosis at a pace they're comfortable with.

Takeaway: A loved one receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a stressful event. When we choose our words carefully, we must remember to be compassionate and patient with our loved ones, regardless of how they react.

Tips in Teaching Your Child to Be a Good Listener

Listening is a skill that aids in communication and relationships. In my book, "Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Cancer," I mention the power of listening and why it matters, especially when providing support.

However, listening is not just for providing support; it can be a lifelong skill that aids in building strong connections and learning. 

If a child doesn't know how to listen, they may have problems interacting and relating with others later on in life. It can also hinder their social dynamics with peers.

To prevent these adverse effects, it helps to teach your young child the art of listening in your home. Here are some handy tips for teaching your child to be a good listener:

1. Teach them to maintain eye contact.

Encourage your child to make eye contact when speaking and when being spoken to. This is the first step in engaging in a conversation because many consider eye contact as a personal cue and signifies the person has their attention.

2. Have them retell stories.

Kids love stories, and another way of getting them to improve their listening and verbal skills at the same time is to encourage them to retell their favorite stories. In this step, recite to them a favorite fairy-tale or short story they enjoy. Once you finish, have them repeat the story to you.

3. Eliminate distractions.

It's hard to listen when constant noises like blaring TVs and videos are playing on your cell phone. Before engaging in a conversation with your child, turn off these devices for fewer distractions.

4. Address your child by name.

Many people tune in more when their name is called. When asking your child to do something, add their name in the direction so they immediately give attention. 

5. Play direction games like "Simon Says," "Duck, Duck, Goose," or "Musical Chairs."

Teaching your child the art of listening doesn't have to be complicated! One way to help them improve their listening skills is to play a game that emphasizes this skill. Games like "Simon Says," "Duck, Duck, Goose," or "Musical Chairs" require keen listening ears.

Before starting the game, start with clear and concise instructions. Remember to thank your child when they listen closely and follow directions effectively.

Takeaway: Listening is the foundation of learning and communication. When we start with these listening exercises, we teach children to become more aware and in tune with their surroundings. Eventually, they'll grow to listen, ask, and become more independent people.

What to Know About Cancer Support Groups

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a crucial moment in a person's life. While cancer has many physical issues during the treatment phase, it can also create emotional pain for the person.

In my book, "Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer," Jeannie Ann's grandmother talks about cancer's physical and emotional pain; both require different treatment types, which must effectively be carried out.

One way to help cope with the emotional distress of a cancer diagnosis is by joining a support group.

What is a Cancer Support Group?

A cancer support group is a social arrangement that offers a listening ear to people who are or were affected by cancer. Since cancer can alter a family's dynamic, some groups provide support for newly diagnosed persons, post-care persons, caregivers, and spouses.

These meetings occur regularly. While many sessions occur face-to-face, some may arrange theirs virtually or over the phone.

During these meetings, a group leader or facilitator may discuss particular topics. Some examples include opening up about your diagnosis to your family and how you've coped since the last meeting.

Each person gets a chance to share. These meetings may involve empathy, tears, laughter, acceptance, and even an opportunity to learn something new. Because cancer can be an isolating experience, even people with strong support networks can benefit from visiting a group of peers with similar experiences.

Why Do People Join Support Groups?

Joining a support group can effectively address any emotional pain or problem on a person's end. Regardless of the person's current relationship with friends and family, people join support groups because they may find it beneficial to be in a group where others have experienced the same things.

Additionally, spouses of cancer patients can also have their support group because the dynamics and responsibilities of being their spouse's primary caregiver are unique and require support and care.

 Joining a support group can also remind the person that they are not alone. When a person undergoes a life-changing event, such as a serious diagnosis, it can alter the course of their life. When that happens, the urge to isolate yourself to prevent "becoming a burden" becomes tempting, but doing so rarely offers emotional security. On the other hand, joining a group can give one a new perspective and assurance.

How to Join a Cancer Support Group?

If you are interested in joining a cancer support group, consider asking your local hospital for any available meetings. You may also ask friends or peers for input or if they know any groups that offer a listening ear.

Bottomline: While a support group can help one cope, it is not a requirement for a person to join one. After all, not everyone who undergoes similar situations may find it beneficial because of various reasons.

However, it doesn't hurt to keep an open mind and see if joining a support group can help ease the burden. If you feel you do not fit in well with one group, there is no harm in looking for another group that aligns better with your emotional needs and values.