Masectomy patterns for my friend

[snookhams]

I have a friend who has been diagnosed with a non invasive form of Breast Cancer and because of where it is she will have the whole breast removed, she has been quite upbeat about it so far - diagnosed about 2 weeks ago and is due to go in for the op on the 26th of this month. She got really upset yesterday - she went to visit the hospital and they gave her a basic prostesis ( did I spell that right) fre(NHS in the UK provide this) and will be given a basic rubber type one when the healing has progressed to a certain level - here come my reason for posting. They also gave her some catalogues for bra's that are intended for use with protesis but they are way out of her price range (DH was made redundant) and even the pockets that can be used in normal underwear are pricey - my question does anyone have of know of anywhere I can get a pattern to make these little pockets for her , they can't be that hard to make and I have extensive needlework knowledge. Thank you so much, I am also going to post this on the coping and compassion threads in case anyone there can help me.

 

[gojoe]

My wife had a lump-ectomy 4 years ago, also removed limp nodes. She had 6 months of radiation. 2 years ago another lump was discovered. She opted for a radical bilateral mastectomy. She have just completed phase II of her reconstruction. She was released with special bra she wore for a week. The doctor told her because it would be a while before her breast formed correctly she should wait on getting fitted for a bra. In the mean time she uses sports bra's. Not sure if this helps. When she got realy down I took her to Disney World, if only for a few day. It's a place were we can forget reality and just live for the moment. Feel free to drop me a personal measage if you have any question we could try to answer. I know UK and USA medical may be different but we maybe albe to give you some insite for your friend. Good luck