"My breast cancer surgery journey"

My DCIS diagnosis was 10 years ago now. I just finished my final reconstruction surgery in July 2023.

My mother had breast cancer as have both my maternal aunts and one of my cousins.  I was not surprised then at my first mammogram to find I had DCIS - a large area - which would require full mastectomy to ensure complete removal.  I opted immediately for bilateral mastectomy as I really did not want to have the worry about the other side developing this with such a strong family link, despite all genetic tests (post op) showing no genetic link.

The service from NHS Tayside has been exceptional - from the breast surgery to the reconstruction and ongoing support through my hiatus in treatment whilst I underwent surgery and chemotherapy for bowel cancer two years after my mastectomies.

The team on Ward 27 at my initial surgery were excellent and the breast specialist team so supportive.  My plastic reconstructive surgery surgeon (Fiona) has been exceptional.  I feel she has 'had my back' for ten years and has fought my corner to get things right when the initial reconstruction failed.  Recurring seromas were taken care of weekly by the breast unit radiology team who eventually told me just to arrive if I needed aspiration, and not wait for appointments. 

The team in outpatients have been so flexible and supportive during many MANY visits with them, along with the wards at Ninewells and Stracathro too.

I cannot praise the team highly enough.  And thank you isn't enough either - I feel I have been cared for and become a friend as well as a patient.