Stories about early cancer diagnosis

You reach the stage where you get comfortable with it, so I never for a moment expected the results to come back with something. Then I got a letter telling me that I needed to come back as something had been found, but I shouldn’t worry. It’s hard not to worry when you get a letter like that. I went back for further tests and a biopsy. Things moved quickly. I was given the diagnosis in December and then I was heading for surgery in January. 

My treatment was explained to me straight away. They told me that the lump in my breast would need to be removed. Then further tests would determine if I needed more treatment like radiotherapy and chemotherapy. 

The surgeon told me a mastectomy was not necessary. At my age, living on my own, I made the decision that I treasured my life more than my body image. Health should always come first. The surgery went very well. I had support from my family and friends, but I was prepared to face things alone at times. I was dropped off for the surgery and everything went smoothly.

I had further tests and then the breast consultant told me that they were happy and that they had got it all and there were no signs that it had spread. The biggest relief for me was finding out that I didn’t need to have chemotherapy."

"An appointment from the NHS Breast Screening Service was sent to me to have a routine mammogram. This was expected as I had had my first mammogram three years prior as part of a randomised screening of women under the age of 50. I had no concerns with my health. As a healthcare professional, I try to have a lifestyle that implements good health choices. 

Receiving a letter to attend for a further mammogram did not worry me. The letter was written in a way as to not be alarming. I thought I might be in another randomised group. However, this third mammogram proved to be a turning point. It was revealed that an abnormality had been detected in my left breast. As well as a mammogram, I also had a biopsy. 

A week later, the results came back as infiltrating ductal carcinoma (DCIS) Grade 1. The treatment plan was to have surgery (lumpectomy) and then radiotherapy. During the surgery, another routine biopsy was taken in which the results revealed a more invasive carcinoma Grade 2 and HER2 positive. Thus, the treatment plan had to change to include chemotherapy and targeted therapy. 

In just a few weeks my life changed. I was no longer the care provider, I was now the patient. My treatment journey has had many ‘twists and turns.’ Along with the expected hair loss, nausea, fatigue, joint pains, I have developed lymphedema and cardiac problems as additional side effects. A very testing time for me, made more challenging as I was still grieving the unexpected loss of my father from a stroke 4 months prior to my diagnosis. 

Despite the side effects, of which some may be long lasting, I have immense gratitude for the Breast Screening Service. I am very fortunate for the early diagnosis. Cancer research has revealed that with early detection there is a very good chance of survival. I encourage all women to attend their screening mammogram appointment. The short time of possible discomfort is a small price to pay for a better chance to live a long healthy life."