Mastectomy recovery - how to support?

[DoItAfraid]

Just wondering if anyone could help/advise on the best thing to send/do as in response to a friend’s very recent mastectomy?

We are friends (NCT group) but I dont want to be intrusive but I also desperately want to do something that is actually helpful.

Ideas? Thank you

Your friend will need practical and emotional support but who that is from and what that looks has to be her choice and on her terms.
Ask her how she is and pay attention to the answer.
Send her a message offering your help and letting her know you're thinking of her.

Even if she doesn't need you now she will always remember who was present and who was not.

I had breast cancer 4 years ago and although I didn't have a full mastectomy I did have surgery and treatment that lasted months.
One of the things I really hated (and this is just my personal thoughts) is that my whole life became about the cancer.

Every conversation with others inevitably revolved around it, friends asked me constantly how I was doing and treated me like I was fragile. What I really wanted more than anything was to be treated normally, to be included in normal life and conversation and to be able to get away briefly from the fact that I had cancer and was having treatment.
Obviously we are all different, but although I did appreciate the offers of help and support, they just made me feel worse.
Not sure if I've been much help really.

I didn’t have a mastectomy but did have a lumpectomy and radiotherapy.

One of my work colleagues came round with a lovely planter of flowers and bulbs she’d very thoughtfully planted for all year round colour .

Another friend took me for afternoon tea which I really enjoyed , just being able to relax , chat and forget about the treatment.

I’m sure she’ll appreciate any offer of help, it’s just nice to know someone is thinking of you. It’s true that sadly some people stay away because they can’t deal with it but basically I wanted to be treated the same as before.