Another nurse I work with has breast cancer

[Blondie]

This is the third nurse on my unit in the hospital in about 8 years that has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

The first one had a double mastectomy, chemo and radiation. She is now passed her 5 year mark.

The second had a lumpectomy and radiation. She is nearing her 5 year mark.

The third was just diagnosed about a month ago. She also had a lumpectomy and is about to start her radiation treatments.

Three nurses on the same unit that do the same job.

 

[Serena]

I'm not sure what that means, but it doesn't sound good at all.
Prayers for all your friends.

 

[Krisu]

That is very scarey! We have seen a high number of young women with breast cancer (30's and 40's) in the Dr's office I work in.

 

[Blondie]

Makes me wonder if there are any environmental factors...you know when there is a "cluster" like this, it makes me very paranoid and I start to wonder what if they were exposed to something that increased their risks?

It's just too weird to have 3, all of them are about the same age and all have been L&D nurses for over 15 years at the same hospital.

 

[Krisu]

Blondie, you didn't say how many nurses altogether work on that floor. If it's something they were exposed to you'll probably never find out. In the meantime, hope everyone else is diligent about self-exams, mammos and yearly breast exam by M.D.

 

[nativetxn]

 

[helenabear]

I think I would be worried about environmental factors as well. {{hugs}} to you and prayers for your co-workers.

 

[Blondie]

Blondie, you didn't say how many nurses altogether work on that floor.

Our L&D has doubled in size, employees and patients over those 15 years. They used to be able to get by with only 3 on days, 3 on the 3-11 shift and 3 on nights.

Now there are at least 8 nurses on the day shift (most of at least 2-3 patients at a time.) 5-6 on the 3-11 and the same for the night shift.

 

[Krisu]

3 out of 20 is still a lot

 

[Blondie]

Yes it is.

 

[CathyCanada]

How sad.

 

[Mickey's sunshine]

That is so sad Blondie. I hope that this one can make it to her 5th year mark too. {{hugs}}

 

[Dan Murphy]

My prayers and best wishes are with these women, Blondie. Please take care of yourself also.

 

[newmousecateer]

Prayers and {{{HUGS}}} to these three ladies Blondie.

 

[minniepumpernickel]

Very sorry to hear that, I hope that she makes a quick recovery!

 

[cotye]

Prayers for your co-worker.

 

[browneyes]

I hope it's all just a coincidence. {{hugs}} I'd be thinking the same thing you're thinking though.