"Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment"

I was not expecting the initial diagnosis as had been for biopsy years ago previous and they were negative. Told I had lumpy breasts and expected same again negative result. So it was a shock to be told - unfortunately you have DCIS. By a surgeon who arrived late for my appointment and didn't even know who I was, having to look up and read my notes as I sat there.

The surgeon was so casual I was sure it could not be bad news. I was on my own. I didn't know what DCIS was but the surgeon went on to say a mastectomy may be required if widespread plus/minus chemo and so I knew it was serious.

I listened to all the percentage stats offered. Then I left, but was not offered any contact details for the breast care nurse. It was not the best breaking of bad news. I had to wait a further 2 weeks over festive period for more information.

It's never easy to break bad news to someone who isn't expecting it and doesn't want to hear it, admittedly it would never have landed well. But some simple things like knowing the patient (being prepared to receive your patient), could have made me feel less like a number. Even though it is routine to them it is not routine to the patient. A warning would have been good, and check on support at home or in the hospital and also the breast care contact card.