"Feeling held after finding a lump"

The first time I found a lump in my breast (a few years ago) I went along to the Radiology Dept at NDDH with my husband as support. All turned out well, nothing to report.

Fast forward to last week, sat in OPD waiting to see Karen in the breast clinic. No one by my side this time (my husband died in 2021). From the moment the nurse called my name I felt "held". All the staff I came across (both at the breast clinic and in radiology) were attentive, kind and thoughtful. Thankfully, once more, all turned out well, nothing sinister to report.

Feeling something untoward in your body is frightening and shocking. Imagination is a wondrous thing until an occasion like this when it goes into overdrive. Having reassuring people around to bring the stress levels down, to reduce the mounting anxiety (inevitably there has been some wait for an appointment - I feel fortunate mine was not so long) and to be surrounded by such caring professionals brings a priceless sense of calm.

Thank you to all I encountered last week...your work is difficult, I know not every outcome is as positive as mine...you make a difference to someone...every day.