Hi Barbe Here is some information for genetic testing. Genetic testing is available for Australians www.genetics.edu.au or for clinics specific to breast cancer see http://www.nbcc.org.au/bestpractice/riskfactors/genetics.html In regards to your other questions you do need to speak with your Oncologist as there is specific answers he/she can give you to your questions that will help you understand what is happening for you.  Alternatively the Cancer Helpline can answer them for you call them on 13 11 20.  All the very best.   ... View more

Hi Bev. Thank you for your post and its good to know the reason for your condition. Hopefully soemone will come forward with some help to your question. ... View more

Hi Stephen. The Cancer helpline can give you heaps of information on the chemo call 13 11 20 The Oncology nurses can fill you in and send you information.  Also asking your Oncologist about the side effects can be useful too as everyone experience of the chemo can be differnt but there are common side effects that everyone goes through. Hope this is helpful. ... View more

Hi Katy There is an article in the Carers section on Anticipatory Grief that you maight find helpful. It must be difficult for you and everyone concenrned. I hope you get the opprtunity to say goodbye and and to spend time togther. ... View more

Hi and thanks for your post. What you write about is so common especially for family carers. It dfficult to balance self care and care for your mother. Its often a double edged sword. Carers often feel guilty when they experience ilness themselves. In fact many carers don't report their own illness as their caring role is so demanding. Its important to recognise that you do need time to look after yourself and its not whinging - its you saying you need some help. Many family members do become less available and this does impact on those who do care - so, you are not alone - many carers experience just what you are going through - so don't be so hard on yourself. It important to find time even if its an odd half hour or hour where you can take some time away to recharge your batteries. If family members have said they will be available - its time to reach out and ask - your are not being difficult or demanding - you are just looking after your mother and yourself. You can also if - you don't already, contact the palliative care team in your local area - call 13 11 20 and speak with teh Cancer Helpline. There is also a new service called Home Hospice that the Cancer Council is sponsoring with others caled home Hospice. You can speak with someone on 1800 132 229 or call the Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre on 1800 059 059 and good luck with everything. ... View more

Hi Carol. It must be hard for you as you care for your husband. You will have a lot going on for you and no doubt will be feeling a lot of different reactions. I hope you have others around you to support you. As you are a carer there are a couple of articles on grief reactins in the carers section of thsi website. If you haven't accessed them yet please do - a new one will be uploaded soon on men's grief.  I also hope that other carers wil be able to post their support for you also. In the meantime it might be helpful for you to post your thoughts as writing them down can be a help. And remember, you also need to find time to care for you. Take soem time out each day to nurture yourself - even if its something such as a bath or put your feet up and flick through a magazine.   ... View more

Sooziii, its good to know that you have made time out for you important. and that you have varied interests that keeps you mind active.  Does anyone else have similar interests or do something different to help care for you?  ... View more