(no subject)

[kingandy]

Gran got breast cancer.

I'm not actually all that upset about it. Obviously I'm down, but it's not exactly a shock. She's been suffering various ailments for some time - trapped nerves, difficulty walking, general degradation - which (while not particularly related to this new malady) has put me of a mind to consider ... eventualities. I'm more worried about Mum, who always puts a brave face on these things, only to be found sniffing and drying her eyes later. I know she's trying to be strong and reassuring, but the big smile she flashes is a bit disturbing.

To be honest - and this was the oddest experience - I actually felt a bit relieved when I heard the news. See, I saw the caller ID before Mum got to the phone, and Gran & Grandad (Mum's parents) never ring on a Thursday (Sun and Weds, every week). Naturally I started to invent reasons why they'd call, and I did know Gran was going in for some tests this week (we knew the doctor had found a lump at her last checkup). Well, long story short, basically I was glad she hadn't dropped dead or something. Luckily I had the presence of mind not to actually say that out loud, as we hugged.

So there's to be an operation in two weeks. Still feeling ... not particularly upset, just a bit melancholy. After all, she's not actually dead yet. And they found it early on, so there's a good chance ... on the other hand, there's no such thing as a safe operation. Time will tell.

Comments

[pax-draconis.livejournal.com]

First, don't assume the worst. Positive thinking does help, daft though that sounds.

I was diagnosed with cancer several years ago, and it's not killed me yet. It went into remission, and every six months I go for a test and see if my lottery number has come up again. It's an odd thing, very mythologised, and if caught early and treated, not necessarily life threatening.

In the meantime, my chances of being run over by a bus remain exactly the same as they did before I was diagnosed.

No help really, but I do know how you feel. Nothing is ever inevitable. Don't assume the worst.

[kingandy]

That does help. I am aware intellectually that it's not universally fatal (at least if the "all clear" adverts are to be believed), but from personal experience I'm two for two. It's encouraging that

I can't think of any good way to finish that sentence, so I shan't. You know what I mean, I hope.

So, yeah, this makes the third person from my immediate family. Perhaps I should start giving money to cancer charities.

[jewelstar93.livejournal.com]

My grandmother survived breast cancer. Every breast cancer patient has to go through Chemo, though. Be prepared for that. It's the hardest thing.
Sometimes it can be hard to control your emotions especially in stress. I have bipolar and especially in stress have trouble displaying the right emotions.

[kingandy]

I'm occasionally given to bouts of introversion, when I overanalyse my own emotions and wonder if I'm really coping with things or just repressing. Mum seems to have cheered up a bit - she was laughing out loud at Black Books on the TV just now - and I'm hoping she's just recovered from the initial shock...

ps, Thanks.

[redhillian.livejournal.com]

Support to all, hugs for those who want them.

[wulfboy.livejournal.com]

I never know what to say when the situation becomes serious, so I'll content myself with a manly punch on the shoulder and a serious look.

[kingandy]

Aw, thanks, ya big lug.

[wulfboy.livejournal.com]

I've always wanted to be a "big lug". I might apply for a longshoreman's job. What do longshoremen do, anyway?

[kingandy]

They ... they shore the ... no, they work on the shore and they're ... they ...

I have no idea.

AH THANK YOU DICTIONARY DOT COM: "A dock worker who loads and unloads ships."
I do not think this is the job for you.

http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=longshoreman

[myki.livejournal.com]

Sadly I'm not particularly manly. My punch would be awkward and not terribly manly.... Much hugs Andy. You'll be wanting to help your family and take some of the stress away from them, which is good and supportive... Its our job as your friends to be supportive of you though. If you need anything, we'll be close at hand. Hugs.

Hugs

[pkgem.livejournal.com]

My Nanna got breast cancer years ago. She had a breast removed but it still going strong. She's 80+ now.
Best wishes to your gran and if you ever need a hug you know where to come.