Just diagnosed with breast cancer

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Here is one I have not seen before...I am going into my last semester (2 exams, 2 clinicals and 2 weeks to go this semester) of NS and have just been diagnosed with bilatereral breast cancer. I am having a double mastectomy over winter break and it is my intention to return in January. Yes, I am insane if you are asking yourself that question...I am also going through a divorce and have a teenager at home.

My question is...Have any of you heard of someone going through school and undergoing chemo? I know nurses are tough and I am determined. I am willing to give it my all and if I can't do it return next year. My health is number one. Any suggestions or histories to share would be great....Thanks.:uhoh21:

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Wow. Just - wow!

You're something, girl! Strong and determined and - wow.

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First off, I am so amazed by your courage, you are amazing!!!

I am so sorry about your diagnosis and pray blessings for you..

I haven't met anyone that was undergoing chemo while in school, but I truly wish the best.

Best to you in treatment and a speedy recovery!

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You sound so strong and determined. Just take care of your health first and then worry about nursing school. I know how hard you've worked to get here and you are going through something we all fear. I'm sorry I don't have any advice or suggestions for you, just wanted you to know i'm thinking pulling for you to get through this.

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Specializes in midwifery, NICU.

(((((rn2b))))).great big hugs to you babe, what a heart breaking situation you are in right now. You seem so positive, WOW! what a fabulous mindset you have.

Re the surgery, and school and stuff. My co-worker had the same, and found she was off for longer than she anticipated. (she is now back at work, and looking and feeling so well.) in fact her outlook was pretty much like yours, and I'm sure that helped her recovery and in combating the cancer. But, bear in mind, it does take a lot out of you, so if you had to defer school for a while, I'm sure they would have you back when you are ready.

Best of luck with all thats to come babe, Will be thinking of you, and sending you good thoughts. let us know how you are doing, whenever you can. Xc..:icon_hug:

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Specializes in LTC.

I don't have any advice but just wanted to say I really like your attitude and determination to just bulldoze through this event. Wishing you a quick recovery.

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OP, I'm sorry about your diagnosis. One of my classmates was diagnosed with breast cancer in our second semester. She too had a mastectomy (though I'm not sure if it was bilateral) over the break, and she came back and kept going. As far as I know, she went through chemo during the semesters which was very difficult on her physically and emotionally. However, she was allowed to make up assignments, tests, etc. so she never fell behind. We graduate in 2 weeks. Talk to your dean and see if your program would be able to make exceptions for you. I wish you luck. You'll be in my prayers.

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Congratulations to you and to your classmate. Please wish her my best and if she has any pointers for me please ask her to share them....

Again, thanks for your kind reply.

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Specializes in Hemodialysis, Home Health.

You are one determined individual.

I wish you all the best in your upcoming procedure, txs., and recovery... as well as your schooling!

Please feel free to come and vent or just chat at any time.

((((((hugs)))))) to you. :icon_hug:

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

I'm sorry that I don't have any advice but I wanted to wish you well. Hugs, Jules

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Specializes in NICU.

I'm so sorry you're going through all this, but you sound like you have a very determined and strong spirit, so I'm sure everything will work out. I wish you all the best.

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with that kind of determination, you can't do anything else but beat it!!

i have heard of students going through treatments and staying in school, it's not easy but doable. and that it's happening now, when there are so many kinds of chemo and so many ways to minimize the side effects, it might not be as bad as you think.

i wish you the best and will think good thoughts for you.

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