Saturday 30 July 2011

Saturday 30th July 2011

I have been to see my GP a couple of times now as my monthly cycle still hasn't returned. After a couple of blood tests it has been confirmed that my levels of prolactin are still extremely high - over 1,000, but should be about 500 which is probably why this hasn't happened. The doctor feels this isn't anything to worry about at the moment but is obviously all linked with the hypertrophic breast situation and just needs to be monitored. I have to say I have had the worst headache for nigh on 3 weeks now and I just feel like I have PMT all the time which is not so good! The results of these tests do confirm what the consultant at the hospital was telling me regarding too much hormonal activity for any surgery to take place so it really has brought it home to me just how long this condition takes to stabilise! I can't believe how it has impacted on so many other functions of my body as well as the obvious!

I went to see my counsellor again this week after a month's break from it. I have to say I was well and truly ready after a couple of negative things that have happened lately so found that I did get a much needed lift after seeing her again.

I am now hoping to trace the case study that the Registrar at the hospital said she was going to publish. I am a little unsure how to go about doing this so if anyone has any ideas please feel free to let me know.

Also I am back to see my GP next week for any update on the Prolactin - I can't believe I am saying this but I cannot wait to see my period again!! (I won't be saying this when the cramps start though!) It indicates that things are settling down in the hormone department which can only be a good thing with regards to my surgery!

I am also hoping to get another bra - I am in so much pain underneath my breasts on the rib cage where the weight of them has caused the wire to press into my skin. My skin has become so thin and is getting sore where its breaking. I have tried putting cotton padding underneath but it's not really working and in this hotter weather only makes the heat emanating from them even worse. I thought I would try the shop I went to in June to see if they could suggest another type/make of bra that may offer better support. Will keep you posted.

Saturday 16 July 2011

Saturday 16th July 2011

This week I saw my consultant who unfortunately has confirmed that I am still unable to go through to the reduction stage.

Apparently he can tell that there is still too much hormonal activity occuring within the breast due to the heat, hardness and discolouration in both breasts. So not the best news ever but he once again confirmed that I would be sorted out. His reasoning is that to operate now means that there could be mass problems with milk leakage which would prevent a neat scar and if we operated too early could result in a mastectomy which obviously is not what any of us want. He says that it will be best to wait another 6 months and get it right than to do now and have it all go drastically wrong. I know if I was on the outside in I would urge someone else to take his advice and do as he says - its just hard when you are living with this to see it that way but I do totally appreciate he has my best interests at heart.

On the plus side he has agreed to let me go and see the plastic surgeon to talk about the surgery and at least that way I feel like we are moving forwards rather than at stalemate if that makes sense!

The bestest thing ever though is that he has agreed to perform the surgery that will cut the nerves etc which will prevent this from re-occuring during pregnancy again. He assures me that it won't, but at the moment I am not sure if I want to take that risk however at least I have that choice!

So even though it didn't feel like I was getting anywhere at least we finally have some positives. Hopefully I can muddle through the next 6 months and hopefully have some good news regarding surgery in the new year. Lets keep everything crossed then!!

Finally, I have had some negative comments regarding whether or not I can technically say I have suffered with Gigantomastia. They have been hard to read but all I can say is that myself, my doctors and my nearest and dearest know the truth and just how tough this has been. My intention has been only to create some recognition and understanding for this condition and had hoped that fellow sufferes could all stick together. It seems that may not be the case but I would only ask that nobody make judgement until they have put themselves in my shoes first.

I will keep you updated - if anyone is still interested!!!

Sunday 10 July 2011

Sunday 10th July 2011

I have to wonder why some people think it is ok to voice their opinions on another persons appearance without any invitation for them to do so.

Last night I went to the cinema with a friend and as I was walking from my car to the cinema some idiot decided to make a rather loud comment about my - his words - knockers. I could have just punched him right in the mouth - how dare he?? I was having a good day until that point and as soon as that happened felt crap again. Why can't people just keep their traps shut. This is not the first time something like this has happened and I am 100% certain (sad to say) not the last either.

And some people wonder why I am fed up with living with this...

Saturday 9 July 2011

Saturday 9th July 2011

We went to Clacton last weekend for a family day out - it was lovely however I am unable to wear the clothes I want to wear. I am totally frustrated as even the companies that specialise in bigger bras don't sell bikinis to fit the bigger busted lady. They seem to stop at a g cup. If I am totally honest I don't particularly wish to wear a bikini but it would be nice to be able to purchase a swimsuit or tankini so that when on the beach I don't feel out of place... Instead I sat there in one of my horrible mammoth tops wishing I could be sunning my shoulders in one of my strapless tops!! I really really hate being like this and just want to be normal again..