Trying my best to be supportive.

May 18, 2019 3:18 PM

I've noticed letters from her doctors office recently, but I thought it was about the gall bladder operation she had a few months ago.
It's amazing how strong some people can be in trying times. It's also amazing how much of a douche I've been through the years. Putting her through 38 years of my drug addiction and alcoholism. I've been self centered, selfish, non supportive, lost jobs, lost friends, etc. I've been sober for five years now, but the damage has already been done.
If you're lucky enough to have someone who loves you unconditionally don't take them for granted. It's a once in a lifetime gift.
That being said, right now it's a small lump and it has not reached her lymph nodes, but surgery is needed and chemo too. She has decided to tell family and friends about her condition when she is ready and has sworn me to secrecy. That's why I'm venting to you guys. Sorry to bother you.

My mom beat her breast cancer and my dad is currently kicking lung cancer’s butt. You two stay strong. Mom loves her new boob!

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

Lol. It's times like this that brings out the best in people or the worst. You guy's have your shit together. God bless you all.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

You can't change the past, only the present. Do what you can do, and be there for her like she was (presumably) for you.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Oh, yeah. She was there for me always and I was the absent husband or father or whatever. I've done my best to own my bad behavior.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

On the bright side most survive and she can get a new and improved pair.

6 years ago | Likes 9 Dislikes 3

Lol. Motorboat time.Forgive me, I'm a worm.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

There are support groups for husbands whose wives have breast cancer. It's hard when the caregiving dynamic changes. Plz join one

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I'll consider it perhaps. I'm still the old school die hard tough guy. We'll see how it goes.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Also? Go to www.flylady.net they give GREAT support/guidance for running the house/managing caregiving. Shes gonna need u to take over.

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

Not a confession. Improper meme usage. ?

6 years ago | Likes 24 Dislikes 3

No bother...God bless and Praying !!!

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

5 years sober is an amazing accomplishment! Try and stay positive! Things seem grim but all is not lost!

6 years ago | Likes 150 Dislikes 0

Thanks.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

My wife is a breast cancer survivor. & while u say the damage is done, trust me, she's going to need the new you as she goes through this.

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 0

Forget the past and focus on supporting her through this. She is going to be sick and weak & have to make hard decisions. She needs u now!

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Sorry to hear its cancer but very happy its localized and very treatable with excellent recovery rate.

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

Thank you for your support.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Sister in law recently got the same diagnosis and is recovering. Stay strong. Statistics are on your side.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I'm glad to hear she's recovering. Also, I'm making arrangements for a dream vacation for her when she's up to it. She loves Ireland.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

You got luck in a badluck. I wont be very nice now but - just cut em out (get new ones if you can), be happy you found out before it spreads

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

Dude, I'm sure this is going to be hard for you both. Being strong when you want nothing more than to break down is tough. We are here for u

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

The important thing is to never go back to those addictions and to be there in everyway you can be for her during this rough time. it's

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

not the end of the road, just a bump. <3

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

38 years of alcohol and drugs and you are still alive: use these years, gifted upon you, to help and support her. a virtual hug from EU

6 years ago | Likes 34 Dislikes 0

Yeah. Just about. Pretty selfish of me, huh? And just about all that time I convinced myself that I was a good person. I wasn't good at all.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

Focus on the now. You are a good person now. You will help your wife get through this. You got this

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

no bad at all: we all (me first) fail to recognize life is a gift. we have to realize it,be grateful and, then, we will be able to be good.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

You're right. I regret it taking so long.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

But now you are. Win!

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

It's never too late to become the person you should be.

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

I'm trying, man.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Hold her tight, be there for her and give her our best wishes.She got diagnosed early, that's half the battle won. GL OP.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Thanks, buddy.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Look, dude, no one is perfect. You are trying to be a better person. You are loved. You are wanted.

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

It is very curable. Scary as shit in the beginning but very curable. Have her get different treatment opinions. Multi opinions good.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Keep your sobriety healthy. She will really need you 100%!

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Yes Shaggysmom. I'm doing my best. So far so good.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Glad to hear. Remember, some days will literally be a minute at a time. And if you need a break or feel overwhelmed, say so!

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

My wife is one year in remission. Be strong for her! Chemo and after surgery are tough. Just remember she is still the same woman you love!

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I'm really trying my best to be there for her. And I will always love her. God bless your wife and yourself.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Hope all goes well. That's pretty heavy shit

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

Thank you.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

No harm waiting until after the surgery to tell folks. Many will expect her to die of cancer, she doesn't need that kind of negativity.

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 1

Are you trying to say that you want my wife to die of cancer? You're a real piece of work.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 3

Oh my goodness, no! I'm saying that others may watch with morbid curiosity, and that's not good for her. I pray your wife's health!

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Thank you. We saw a surgeon today and the doctor gave a good prognosis. Chemo after surgery, but the mortality rate is high. Thanks again.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

My ex-wife was diagnosed with breast cancer as well. The dr caught it early and 5 years later all is good.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Glad to hear it. I think most doctors and insurance companies consider 5 years cancer free as a cured patient.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

The one thing I learned from cancer is it's all about mentality, stay positive, stay normal, love harder. You'll get through this together

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Thank you for saying that. I do believe that to be true.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

My dad had pancreatic cancer, 3months to live tops. He turned it into almost 2 years because he never stopped fighting and being positive

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

God bless him. Beating the odds.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

If I can give you any advice, it's don't leave things left unsaid between you and your loved ones. Ask the hard questions. Don't miss out

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

You are sober now to be the support she needs! You can DO it!

6 years ago | Likes 500 Dislikes 2

Manage your stress while supporting her. Your skills learned in sobriety will help you both now. Good luck! Speedy recovery!

6 years ago | Likes 62 Dislikes 0

I also don't want to overdo it and be in her way. My parents are still around, so I never had to deal with something like this.

6 years ago | Likes 14 Dislikes 0

Treat her as the person you love and respect that has cancer. She's still the same person :)

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Show her love, and show her that you truly do care. You will never be in her way

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

And look , you made this about you.

6 years ago | Likes 29 Dislikes 9

I dont know why people are downvoting you bro. Youre right. Fuck this guy.

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 2

The fact that she hid everything up until an actual diagnosis is pretty sad IMO. Can't imagine hiding that from my husband.

6 years ago | Likes 10 Dislikes 2

It kinda sounds like she still doesn’t trust him...not that I blame her after all that. :(

6 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

That's the vibe I got. My wife is suffering so let me tell the internet about my problems. Some people have no concept of empathy.

6 years ago | Likes 12 Dislikes 4

Hey, look, a troll with more than one account.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

I mean I think he's telling the story so you can understand why he maybe feels guilty and that.

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 3

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 3

sorry bout her titties

6 years ago | Likes 137 Dislikes 27

Doesn't make the situation any better, but on the bright side: new, designer boobs.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Lol.

6 years ago | Likes 49 Dislikes 3

Don’t be sorry, she can get bigger and better ones once she beats cancer.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Kid in HS was big in Brest cancer awareness. I asked who he lost, he said he just couldn’t bear the thought of something messing up tits.

6 years ago | Likes 25 Dislikes 3

Was his name “The Todd”?

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

It’s a common cause we can all get behind... except for the gays they don’t have a dog in this race, lucky dicks. (Jk for gay joke)

6 years ago | Likes 11 Dislikes 0

Savage.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Seriously? This may be an asshole troll post I don’t applaud.

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 4

It's okay, you don't have to approve. OP laughed.

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Not a bullshit post. I'm sorry to say it's for real. Not whoring for points either. Just look at my words in the middle of my initial rant.

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 0

Don't take unconditional love for granted. Show you care.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I was referring to ironmagnus’ comment not your post. Apologies.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

No worries.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Sorry? He can encourage her to get some great fakes without having to admit the old ones were losing their lustre.

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 3

Lol. My wife had a moment of levity last night. She said that the new ones would be high up and perky.

6 years ago | Likes 14 Dislikes 0

My sis had replacements. Doesn't even need to wear a bra now and has way bigger boobs. Use humor to get thru it. It's scary at first!

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

So what do you think of your sister's tits?

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Ha

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Inbox me some pics

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Sorry... don't keep them on my phone.

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

5 years is great man, keep it up and stay strong for her. She needs you more now.

6 years ago | Likes 252 Dislikes 1

Thanks. Surprised it's not my condition, considering the way I was living.

6 years ago | Likes 22 Dislikes 0

Don't blame yourself, some people can be super healthy and still get the awful C. Focus on your achievements and how you can be there for he

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

I will. Thank you.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

This happened to me too. Your wife's case has excellent survival statistics, so you are both very lucky.

6 years ago | Likes 1152 Dislikes 3

Downvote bc you misused confession bear

6 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 14

My mom just went through this and she's doing great now. Caught early.

6 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

@OP. I did the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer to support a friend in 2004 and 2005. I met hundreds of women and quite a few donors who have

6 years ago | Likes 16 Dislikes 1

had breast cancer (some more than once) and survived. Surprisingly some friends had it and I never knew until I was raising funds for it.

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 0

Thank you for the encouragement. I appreciate that.

6 years ago | Likes 9 Dislikes 0

You’re welcome. I raised almost $11,000 total in the 2 years. Lots of great donors. A side note, after 2004 walk I was photographed and

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 3

Signed an ad release. My full face photo was used in nationwide ads, mailers, fliers, etc. all over he USA. They wanted a male (I was 51).

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 3

Hope she’s not tripple negative, if not you’re going to have a happy life together

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

You're right. She's very lucky her insurance pays for a 3d mammogram. She knows all this, but cancer has ravaged many in family. Still worry

6 years ago | Likes 228 Dislikes 2

Well, now you know. Follow through. Tell her what you've told us, thank her for being there, and return the love now, build intimacy through

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

supporting her and stepping up. Show her you can do for her what she has done for you.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

This

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

My mum made it through fine at 54, she's been clear 3 years now. Mad woman would do DIY like building a patio while going through treatment

6 years ago | Likes 16 Dislikes 0

Another doc weighing in - without node involvement it's very local & treatable. Things will be fine. Just show her the support she needs :)

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 0

as a doctor: if she wants, go to all the appointments: to only be the scribe, so she doesn't have to remember anything, encourage others 1/2

6 years ago | Likes 91 Dislikes 0

She made herself go to the appointment for the mammogram. She was afraid because she hadn't seen a doctor in a while. Glad she went.

6 years ago | Likes 30 Dislikes 0

tell her that, you are going to need to be her rock as much as you can. you two are a team in this.

6 years ago | Likes 20 Dislikes 0

to not treat her as the caner patient ,she is the woman who has cancer (so fucking what, it's not a personality shift) take her mine off 2/3

6 years ago | Likes 79 Dislikes 0

mind* off of it where you can, breast ca. has good survival and if it's mastectomy time then you help her w/ any body image issues 3/3

6 years ago | Likes 66 Dislikes 0

I found out on Thursday that my sister's cervical cancer has spread to her lymph nodes. We didn't always have a good relationship, and -1

6 years ago | Likes 12 Dislikes 0

It's killing me that it's my fault we wasted so much time. I'm right there with you, brother.

6 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 0

Same with my mom. Metastatic breast cancer after 10 years post double mastectomy. I was the one by her side 24/7 the last 6 months. You have

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 0

Time and this time is what counts. And she’ll see that and know it. Just know you’re doing this for her not just you

6 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 0

Reach out to her and tell her you love her. Life is too short. No need to sweat about the little things.

6 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 0

I did, actually, about ten minutes before my mom contacted me with the news about the cancer. I am very much a skeptic, but it was weird.

6 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Even if they’re big things, it’s scary as FUCK knowing you’re going to die in the near future. People shouldn’t be alone

6 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0