Episode 31: What I wish I knew

Upfront About Breast Cancer

We recommend that listeners exercise self-care when listening to this podcast, as some may find the content upsetting.

Let’s be Upfront about looking back on a breast cancer experience and talk about some of the things you might wish you had of known. Often described as an emotional rollercoaster, no two breast cancer experiences are the same. A common theme, however, is people reporting the immense adjustment required to adapt to a ‘new normal’ once hospital-based treatment has ended. For some there is anxiety, a sense abandonment and difficulty navigating changed relationships, a lack of self-confidence and feelings of grief.

In this episode, we’re joined by Kath Elliott and Janine Keyhoe. Kath was diagnosed with locally advanced triple positive breast cancer at the age of 46, while Janine, also in her 40s received the diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Firm friends, Kath and Janine are both passionate about developing more opportunities for those who have finished their active treatment to connect and share their experiences.

We hear the lessons that Kath and Janine have learnt from their respective experiences, and their reflections on topics ranging from the conversations they had with their families, contrasts in the private and public health systems and the make-up of their support networks to the impact of their breast cancer on relationships and the integration of gratitude and self-care into their daily lives.

RESOURCES:

• Sign up to My Journey and access a range of resources on treatment and side effects as well as navigating the emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis.
• Visit our Online Network to connect with people going through a similar experience.

Upfront About Breast Cancer is a production of Breast Cancer Network Australia. Our theme music is by the late Tara Simmons, and this episode is proudly brought to you by Cancer Australia.

Want to get in touch? Visit our website at bcna.org.au, email us at [e-mail], or call our Helpline on 1800 500 258