In the first year after treatment, 58% of people experienced pain due to their breast cancer and treatment. 181 out of 312 people,
Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
'I didn't want to talk to my family about my fears or worries - they were already worried sick - but I found friends far easier.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
57% of people experienced fatigue one to two years after treatment. 120 out of 208 people,
Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
‘Many of us breathe a sigh of relief when we get to the end of chemo/rads. Sometimes it's only then that it sinks in and there's an emotional fallout.' Breast Cancer Care
Discussion Forum, May 2011
In the first year after treatment, two thirds of people experienced 'a lot' or 'a great deal' of concern about the cancer returning. 203 out of 312 people,
Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
'After your treatment, you still need support... I've found support through online communities.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
86% of people needed additional support related to their breast cancer one to two years after treatment. 180 out of 207 people,
Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011
'As I get closer to the end of my adjuvant treatment, I have concerns about how I'll cope when I'm anxious about the cancer returning.' Breast Cancer Care poll, May 2011

Moving Forward:
The first two years

I was entering my final year at uni when I was diagnosed in Aug 09, then treated aggressively because of my age. I was extremely lucky to not need a mastectomy; that terrified me. Now, the occasional thought that it could return still scares the crap out of me. Now that I’m not bald anymore and it’s no longer in peoples’ faces it does seem that it’s forgotten to others; not for me though, I do still have pain and I do still get tired, as well as the emotional effects etc. But I also have a life. And I’m grateful for that.

Teri, Plymouth

We run Younger Women's Forums for women aged up to 45 who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in the last three years. These free one- or two-day events relate specifically to the needs of younger women and include sessions on topics such as breast surgery and reconstruction, menopausal symptoms, relationships and communication, relaxation, and lymphoedema. To find out more, call 0845 077 1893.