"Not relevant and very distressing"

I received an appointment to attend for a mammogram as part of the routine breast cancer screening for women 50+. I was a bit surprised to get the appointment and accompanying information on the importance of breast screening as I have secondary breast cancer.

I contacted the number on the letter to cancel the appointment and said to the lady I thought that it was inappropriate and the reason as to why so. I have had metastatic cancer for 6 years now and previously had letters for mammogram and cervical screening and I was assured this would no longer happen. Aside from it not being relevant, it is very distressing as the leaflets you get along with the appointment are all about how a few minutes may save your life!

I was told by the person I spoke to that it was not possible for them to know that I have breast cancer as they are a stand alone service. I have since been told that their list comes from the GP surgery who clearly do know my history?

I was also told that in order for no further appointment to be sent I would need to sign a disclaimer and send this back. I was asked if I understood what I was doing. I understand perfectly and agreed to do this. I was quite shocked to then get the said letter - the first paragraph said that in the UK women aged 50-70 are invited for breast screening examinations every 3 years. It said that this follows the successful outcome of the screening trials which demonstrated that deaths from breast cancer can be significantly reduced by the participation in routine mammographic screening programmes for women in this age group.

The tear off slip that I was asked to sign and return included that I assume full responsibility for this decision and accept that I have read the statement about the importance of screening in reducing breast cancer deaths. Surely in 2024, this is not what should be happening to people who are living with terminal disease.

Fortunately I am very well looked after by my oncology consultant and specialist Macmillan nurse who have been brilliant throughout my journey.