OUR LIFE - Sharing my positive cancer journey with you. My experience of French healthcare.
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- Опубликовано: 15 сен 2024
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Thought I would share my experience of diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer here in France with you. Some of you may have been diagnosed with breast cancer and may find it comforting. The word 'cancer' obviously makes your stomach flip but surgeons can do so much now and in a lot of cases extend many peoples lives. I certainly feel very fortunate! This is totally MY experience and I cannot compare to anyone else. Once I had my initial diagnosis I was informed I would have radiotherapy after, so I searched RUclips for other peoples experiences and what I did find really put me at ease once I knew exactly what to expect. This is what I hope my vlog will do for you.
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There are lots of support groups on facebook for people that have had mastectomies, the one I joined by was a real comfort.
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From what I have seen and heard from others on RUclips that I subscribe to - The French Medical System is top notch. Thank you for sharing your Cancer Journey - I used to work in a radiation clinic and saw many people male and female going through chemo and radiation for their cancers. What is so incredible with cancer survivors is their sheer determination not to give up...Congratulations in your victory and that you have such a fantastic medical team along with you. God Bless!!
Thank you Chris🥰
Thank you for sharing your story-it’s valuable for women to learn and be comforted that the healthcare you received in France was so comprehensive. I live in the US and I’m coming up on my 5th anniversary of completing my hormone therapy after completing my breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. I had a lumpectomy, 6 chemo and 17 targeted Herceptin, 33 radiation, and 5 years of Arimidex. I also feel that my care was exceptional and am thankful I had excellent private insurance-but I live in a major metro area with several University hospitals. To know that you got such great care in rural France is wonderful.
Hi Janet! Isn't it amazing how different each person's treatment is?! Fingers crossed for your final outcome 🤗🤞 You are so right, it is such a scary time, for anyone with any cancer. I thought it was comforting to tell that not all outcomes are negative/ horrible. Thank you for sharing. ❤️🥰
Thank you for sharing this with us Jan. You are a very brave and a lucky Lady. I had three lumpectomy's 40 yrs ago and they were all benign, it was a scary time to go through. I have an endoscopy and colonoscopy every two yrs just as a precaution my sister and several family members have sadly died from stomach and bowel cancer. Its good that you have decided to get on and enjoy your life, also giving encouragement and strength to others via this vlog. Stay safe and thank you 💕🇦🇺
Aw bless you Liz ♥️I do consider myself lucky. Keep having your tests, it makes sense, they can work miracles these days. ♥️
Thank you for sharing thus and giving a 'real' insight. Glad you are well and hope you continue to be so.
Thank you Angela. I plan on staying well. Take care xz
Well done Jan, you are an inspiration. X
Thank you so much Kim ❤️
Thank you for sharing, keep strong you are an inspiration.
Hi Joyce, thank you I try. Take care x
Another survivor here, my episode was in to 2010. My story is very similar and the treatment here in Ireland was just a good as France. I didn't react very well to the chemo, it was a longer course and it was miserable but the rest was okay. My hair didn't look like it was going to grow back, it took three years. My auburn hair is now pure white, I lost my curls and it's a very different texture. I was offered and accepted reconstruction, it has worked for me. Yesterday I got another all clear letter after my yearly mammogram and scan. I am so delighted, relieved and very thankful.
I am enjoying your chanel, thank you.
Hi Julie, Fantastic news! So pleased about your latest outcome! My friend had 18mths of chemo and radiotherapy was a nightmare for her. She has now bounced back to life and her hair has stayed really curly! My curls dropped out as soon as it got longer, shame really. As I say I do consider myself very fortunate other than the body shape I'm left with🤨 but I'm alive. Good for you on your reconstruction ❤️ take care xx
@@FOPYSFrance Don't worry about the weight girl. I went heavier too but I managed to get it off 4 years ago with a huge concerted effort once everything settled down and the medication was finished with. I just couldn't shift it before. As you say, we are alive and it's a quality life, the rest is cosmetic. So keep on going, you are doing so well. 😊🤗 xx
It's not just the weight Julie but only having one breast does remind me of what has happened, when I dare to look in the mirror that is. 🙃😀
@@FOPYSFrance That I fully understand. Reconstruction isn't pretty either, at least not in my case. The scars are there forever but I have learnt to live with it. Looking in mirrors is rare for me too.
I’m so glad you are feeling more positive now. Your hair looks good, don’t worry about the grey, I’ve been grey since I was 40.
Hi Annette, I'm not worried about the grey at all now to be honest. So many people tell me it is a lovely grey ( not that would tell me it was horrible 😂) I'm saving so much money on hair dye now too! 🙂 If I hadn't dyed my hair previously I would have gone grey all over early too, my mum was grey very early. Xx
Thanks for your video, I'm in Normandy and I also had breast cancer in 2018, my story is similar to yours. I only had to have a lumpectomy and radiotherapy afterwards, but totally agree with you re the medical staff, they are very thorough and also friendly and kind. Keep doing the videos, you are very good at it.
Hi sylparker, you are very kind. Take care xx
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Thank you for sharing your story. Curious as to what kind of breast cancer you had please?
Hi Jan, Initially they found a 4mm lump, how they found it I'll never know but they did. I was taken in to remove it then during surgery the surgeon found that my whole breast was cancerous. The surgeon said it would not have been found on a mammogram so in a way that little tumour saved my life. He said it was to do with my hormones. That is why I am now on tablets for another 3 yrs, 5 yrs total. I must admit I'm not the sort of person to look into what's wrong with me too closely, I leave that to the doctor's. That's why I can't recall specific names 🤔 and why I think I've stayed so calm throughout. Don't get me wrong both myself and Duncan had our tearful days but everyone was so wonderful I was blessed. Sorry if that is of no help to you. Take care x
Glad you recovered…it sounds like the health care system in France is really good. I live in B.C. Canada, are system is ok. It is not as good as it use to be. :)
Hi Amanda, thanks for joining me! Xx
What an amazing story, so glad things are getting better for you, fingers crossed it doesn't come back. Loving watching your vlogs so please keep them coming. Sending you a hug from Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺 😀💜👍
Thank you so much Michelle! Now I know people want to watch the pressure is on lol! I'm off to UK next week to finally see my family and our new grand daughter, she's only a week old! Grand child number 11! Hugs from France xx
Thank you for your story. I emphasise with you as I went through the same just after my 50th birthday back in 2003 and still here to tell the tale .😀
Very glad to hear it Rosemary! Take Care xx
I am new to your channel found through Michael's channel. I live in the UK in Essex and like you have had breast cancer 7 years ago. Whilst my treatment was excellent it sounds like in France for you it was even better. Keep positive and I look forward to seeing more about your life in France xxx
Hi Jane, glad you are here to speak to me! I feel very fortunate. I always try to remain positive which can be difficult when your married to someone who is a worrier. He's my hero though! We came from Erith in Kent not far from the Dartford bridge! Thanks for watching! Take care xx
@@FOPYSFrance I could really relate to everything you were saying. I had my first routine mammogram yesterday after being discharged and I still feel very anxious about the results xxx
Keeping my fingers crossed for you. X
Thank you for sharing your story. I have 5 days left of the 6 weeks of radiation for vocal cord cancer. I Am Not Having Fun. :( :( :(
Hi Beth, I remember how I felt, needing someone to talk to who had been through similar. It's amazing how people seem to come out of the woodwork in these situations. I suddenly found ladies I knew of in close proximity who had had mastectomies and it was really comforting to compare notes etc The radiotherapy journey seems like a long one but obviously necessary. Everybody's experience is different too depending on where their cancer is etc. Hold on, keep strong it'll be done very soon. If you need to talk I'm here. Take care x
@@FOPYSFrance Thank you, Jan.
Thank you for sharing your health journey with us. I know that couldn’t have been easy. I can only imagine the comfort you have given to many with a similar condition. Much admiration and well wishes to you from the USA.
Thank you Paula ❤️ take care x
My goodness life throws some harrowing punches at us. I am currently worried about a health condition I will be having investigated in the next 2 weeks. I feel like i'm in limbo and in a constant state of fear and anxiety, trying to carry on and be strong and not think the worst. Your video will really help some people who are facing ill health. I always admire people that come on here and tell their story just to offer support to people. It makes one feel not so alone. x
Hi NorthAngel, It certainly sets us some challenges some times. I know exactly what you mean, the waiting is awful. The only thing I would say is, if your doctor thought you had any thing serious I'm sure they would have you in like a shot. Our minds tend to work over time and we start to imagine all sorts of things wrong with us. My experience is whatever it is, doctors can, 9 times out of 10, generally do something about it. We are very fortunate not to be living years ago when technology and medicine was not like it is now. Keep yourself distracted gardening or with a hobby. Maybe meditate? Whatever you do, do not start googling your symptoms and self diagnosing! So many symptoms over lap with other things it's a minefield! Email me and let me know how you get on or if want to chat. Take care x
@@FOPYSFrance Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I am trying not to look at Google! I had my gallbladder removed last year and so I suspect I could be having digestive problems after that. I will certainly let you know how I get on. I'm writing to you from the Uk here first thing in the morning because the mornings are the worst for me and when I'm at my lowest. I find people like yourself and my 42 year old cousin, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 2 years ago, such an inspiration and comfort. Thank you so much x
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Thank you for sharing your story. I’m sure it will be a huge to help to a lot of people who are going through or getting ready to go through breast cancer. You are excellent at explaining the whole procedure and your story will be a huge help in knowing what to expect. Prayers you will remain cancer free.
Thank you Louetta! ❤️
Thank you for sharing your story! I am 64 and am scheduled for my "routine" mammogram next week...I'm not looking forward to it! They are uncomfortable to say the least. Last time it felt as if the lady was pulling "breast tissue" from my spine (Ha! Ha!) to include in the exam! The very first one I ever had when they first began doing mammograms, I was much younger and the machine malfunctioned and clamped down on my breast and would not release!!! I had to hang there until maintenance men came in, worked on the machine and I could be released! Needless to say I hate and fear mammograms! Glad everything has worked out for you! I hope I have a good outcome too.
OMG! What a horrific time you had!! They are soo uncomfortable! I hate them, it always feels like my breast is going to burst! Thank god for them though! Fingers crossed you have another good result! Take care and let me know how you get on.x
Linda: when they find a potential tumor, they use a “focused” panel to press down on the area. It’s about the size of a coke can so they can really get close to the area. Then before your surgery, they do it again to put in a guide wire so the surgeon can easily find the tumor. It was the worse part of my ENTIRE cancer journey which included chemo, radiation and targeted treatments. Now, imagine if a man had to have these procedures on their privates. Women are the stronger sex.
Janet: I wonder now if that was what they did to me, my worst bit was the painkiller injections prior to the operation. So uncomfortable, I now wonder if that is what they were doing! I was too busy crying to translate what was being said I just knew they were there to help me.
Here in US we have our first colonoscopy at 45 and then if it is OK & don't have history 10 years after. We have mammograms beginning at 40 and then annually.
Hi Teri, wow Mammograms and colonoscopies that early! And then yearly mammograms - Fantastic! I would take so much comfort in that! I do now with mine each year but if I hadn't already had breast cancer they would be every 2yrs after 50.Which is what I was having before. Colonoscopies are every 2yrs from 50. I assume 45 is some sort of threshold? Interesting, take care Teri x
@@FOPYSFrance Be safe and all the best to you and your family.
What a beautiful and honest Vlog. You have a peaceful and calming way about you. I just found you through Michael’s channel and have subscribed. 😊
Hi Kimberly, Thank you for subscribing and thank you for kind words. I don't think we see ourselves the way others do but I must say I do try and take things calmly. Being panicky gets no one anywhere and it can be difficult to think straight then too. Thanks be again and take care x
Thanks for sharing. I admire you to have the courage to share such an emotional experience. Glad to hear things are getting better. I will keep my ringers crossed for you.
Thank you so much Joke! Xx
Quite a story Jan. The health system here is certainly supportive. I’ve had a few episodes myself and thankful like you for the excellent treatment.
Hello from California, My name is Mary. I just want to thank you for this video, your are very down to earth and comforting. I feel as if I too can get through my treatments, of course not looking forward to them. I am so glad you are doing well, I found you through another video called Doing it ourselves. Thanks again Mary
Hi Mary, I am glad you took comfort from my vlog,that was my intention I know when I got to talk to women in the same / similar situation I felt a lot less alone and felt able to tackle things knowing more or less what was about to happen and they were there when I had questions about anything too. Talking to someone who has been through can be easier than talking to a doctor. A doctor doesn't speak from the same perspective. As I said in my video I still get aches and pains from my medication but better that than the possible alternative. Take care you can do it. Email me if you want to chat and keep strong. Xx
You are an impressive woman! I also had breast-cancer here in France, and can witness that everyone involved was so kind--almost like friends.
I think you were born to vlog: you ae clear, no 'um's and 'er's,and you come across a awarm personality. Look forward to catching up on you..
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Awww thanks Janet! I wouldn't say I'm impressive 😬 I do think attitude can have a lot to do with what happens to us. I went into my journey with the expectation that the surgeons, oncologist etc were all there to save me. Showing them the respect they deserve means you are respected in return and the whole process is a lot less stressful. I took comfort in a Facebook group too, they were so much help - distant friends. As for being born to blog 🤔 I though I um'd and ah'd lol! Maybe that was in my head lol! Thank you for your kind words Janet, take care x
Thanks for sharing your story. It sounds like France has an amazing healthcare system. Here in the US, we do not get that level of healthcare and we have to pay a lot of money to have health insurance. I had cancer too. I had a radical hysterectomy and they sent me home the same day! It's unbelievable how we are treated here.
Hi Hailey, I've heard similar stories, while I was in hospital I joined a mastectomy group and it was shocking how some people were treated in their countries. I know you have to pay ridiculous insurance costs and for what?! Take care xx
@@FOPYSFrance That is not true. We have great doctors and people come from all over the world. Relatives in England get private insurance because it takes forever to get appointment.
Hi Hayley, everyone has their own experiences and I can only go by experiences told to me, I think every country has it's bad health care stories and everyone can only go by that. It's good to get a balance of experiences. Thank you for watching! Take care x
It's both kind and brave of you to be so transparent. I wonder - do the medical people in France give patients an opportunity to refuse chemo/radiation? A friend here in the US had to fight quite hard to choose radical mastectomy and zero chemo/radio. She knew she would not respond well to those treatments and she has been successfully cancer free for a long time. But it was quite a difficult fight to choose that.
Hi Lisa, being that I took all they wanted to give me I'm not in a position to say. I can't imagine that anyone can be forced to be treated if they didn't want it. Surely you would just sign a waiver or something? I'm very fortunate to have had a positive outcome and I will be eternally grateful to my surgeon Dr Mille. We hear to much about the negative side of things and that's not good, outcomes are the always bad and having the right mind set and attitude helps enormously. 😊 Take care x
@@FOPYSFrance Well, what my friend had to deal with was a lot of hostility from her medical team. I don't know if she had to change MDs in order to have her choice respected. I am sure she signed all kinds of waivers. I am glad yours is also a happy outcome.
Thankyou! XX
Thank you for watching Joyce xx