Raising awareness.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK, with 1 in 7 women being diagnosed in their lifetime. This month alone, nearly 5,000 people will be diagnosed.
Breast cancer awareness month is here to raise awareness about the complex disease, fund research into its treatment, and shine a spotlight on what symptoms to look out for.
We spoke with our colleague, Bev, all about her first-hand experiences and advice she would give to to anyone concerned about or impacted by breast cancer.
Did you notice any symptoms or changes to your body?
B – Originally, a dry patch of skin developed on my left breast. I had been to the doctors three times, and told it was eczema every time, but something in me knew that it wasn’t that. So I asked to be referred to the breast clinic, and had an appointment arranged at what’s known as a ‘One Stop Gold Clinic’. Once I was at the breast clinic I had biopsies from both breasts, and it was found that I had calcifications on my right breast – so the opposite breast to what I was even there for!
How was your experience in being diagnosed?
B – At the breast clinic they do everything in 1 day, from mammograms to biopsies, which was a bonus as it means you get everything checked out, and won’t hold off going to any future appointments. Waiting round was definitely the scariest part as you’re just in the unknown, but even though the situation you’re going through is a really difficult time, all the nurses and staff were genuinely so kind and supportive, which really made a difference. It’s strange to say that I had a positive experience there, but I really did!
How did you feel once being diagnosed?
B – I actually felt elated, as I knew what I was dealing with. My cancer was Grade 0 but on the highest level, which meant it was soon to change to Grade 1 – but as it was caught early, it wasn’t able to progress anymore. From being diagnosed to undergoing surgery it was only 6 weeks, and I was given an in-depth treatment plan which really helped me deal with what was happening.
What support networks were useful to you during this time?
B – I was allocated a breast cancer care team and support from Macmillan, who were so useful. They provided emotional support, and spoke about things not just cancer related, and taught me about being protected by the Disability At Work Act. My hospital also ran a support group where you’d meet women who were diagnosed at the same time as you. This is such a good support network, I actually volunteer there now. Also, now that I’m in post-recovery, I’ve found the charity Maggie’s to be really helpful for all mental health aspects.
What advice would you give to anyone?
B – Before I got diagnosed I already had 3 mammograms, which proved to be really useful as they were able to backdate and see when the cancer had developed. As soon as you’re able to have a mammogram go do it! After my treatment, I pestered my friend who hadn’t had one yet to have it done and she actually found out she had calcifications. Like 90% of people, these calcifications were benign, but without having a mammogram she would’ve never known. Ultimately though, I’d say if you see any changes to your body, go get it checked out.
Get checking
Over a third of women in the UK don’t regularly check their breasts for potential signs of breast cancer.
The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better chance of successful treatment. In just the past 40 years, the survival rate for breast cancer has doubled.
Anyone can be diagnosed with breast cancer. Check your body, it can make all the difference!
For more support and advice about breast cancer, check out these useful links:
