"Friendly, professional and patient"

I received a letter following a mammogram stating that the results showed I needed further investigations. As this had never happened to me before - I am in my 60s - I was very anxious about what might lay ahead for me. 

A week after I received my letter. Accompanied by my husband, I attended my appointment at the Lincoln Breast Services.

I was warmly greeted by the receptionist and given a questionnaire to complete. A few minutes later I was called through by a very lovely lady called Jade. She informed me of the reason why further assessment was needed and then explained in detail what tests would be carried out during my appointment.

During the course of my 3 hours at the Lincoln Breast Services I had further mammograms, an examination, an ultrasound scan and some needle biopsies. Before each procedure was carried out I was fully informed regarding what was going to happen. I did not have to wait long between each of the procedures and the whole department ran like clockwork.

I received care from several members of the team and each one was exceptional. They were all friendly, professional, patient, displayed appropriate humour, and all played a part in putting me at my ease. Unfortunately I am unable to remember their names, but I cannot thank them enough for making what I feared would be an unpleasant experience, anything but!

At the end of the appointment I was called through again to see Jade, the first lady I saw before my tests began. She went through everything that had been carried out and what would happen next. I asked the question as to what was likely to happen should my results be positive. Jade explained things to me in a clear and calm manner and I felt reassured, rather than alarmed. I was given a letter setting out all the procedures that had been carried out, advice for care following the needle biopsies and a follow up appointment date. I was also given the choice of face to face, telephone or video appointment.

The doctor who carried out my examination and ultrasound did say he felt that it was likely my results would prove to be normal changes to my breasts. However, should this prove not to be the case, following my very positive experience with all the lovely staff at the Lincoln Breast Services, I now feel confident I could cope with any ongoing treatment I might need.

Thank you Lincoln Breast Services, you are all wonderful and a credit to the NHS