Have you fought back from illness?

Have you had any reconstructive surgery? Do you think having surgery helps somebody to recover in an emotional or psychological sense?

Comments

[Fiona Smith]

Well done Tara for getting through your reconstruction and coping so well.

I too have had breast surgery the last one was my 7th on my left breast. This resulted in a mastectomy without reconstruction. When I made the decision to have this surgery there was a 5% chance of the cancer returning so I opted to stay natural and just have the mastectomy. The main reason for this was I had found all the previous lumps myself and if I had anything false put in I would not know what was real and if there was a further problem.

It was a hard decision to make but I made sure my fiance was aware of all the implications of this surgery and how relieved I was when the breast was removed. Now I am happy and moving on with my life. The threat of the cancer returning always hangs in the air but I too live day by day. I enjoy my life as best I can.

I got married on the 15th November 2008 something which I never thought I would do. In September 2007 we asked for help on the Trisha Goddard Show and we duly received this help. We also had a surprise given to us by Trisha and her team. Ana Cristache of London was to be my wedding dress designer.

On the wedding day we raised £375 for MacMillan Cancer Support and £98.44 for Breast Cancer Care.

Life does go on and I am happy going around naturally at home without my prothesis so long as I can wear a smile on my face it keeps me going.

People judge on looks. I don't so long as you can wear a smile and be proud of who you are you can get through life. I have met other people far worse off than me. Leanne Grose for one has inspired me to keep going and I am in the middle of writing a book.

Life doesn't stop just because of cancer. In fact my life has changed for the better.

All the very best.

Feex