• More than five years after treatment, 30% of people found that side effects were having a significant impact on their lives. 20 out of 66 people,
    Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • 'I am a few years post diagnosis. No one prepared us for life after breast cancer, but we live and learn.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • More than five years after treatment, breast cancer had a negative impact on the sex lives of 60% of people. 41 out of 68 people,
    Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • 'My children were very small when I was diagnosed, and they didn't understand the implications of breast cancer. Now in their 20s they're able to understand.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • More than five years after treatment, 30% of people experienced lymphoedema. 14 out of 47 people,
    Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
  • 'Three years ago my support group did a fashion show and at the age of 58 I was a model for a night, something I never thought I could do before.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011

Moving Forward:
Beyond five years

On 7th March 2012, it will be 10yrs since I was diagnosed. After having both breasts removed and then going on to reconstruction, I finally completed the last of the many surgeries that I have had with my nipple reconstruction and tattoo’s of the areola’s. Although my marriage ended shortly after my diagnosis and I am still single, I finally feel like a woman again, now that my reconstruction is complete.

Lori, Lowestoft

Treatment for breast cancer leaves many people with temporary or permanent reminders of their experience. Find out more about body image and confidence in our free Moving Forward resource pack, attend an information session on reconstruction, or talk to other people with similar experiences through our online Discussion Forum and Live Chat sessions.
Lori, Lowestoft