"A journey with cancer"

On 09/08/2018 I was given an emergency appointment to see a G.P. at my surgery. At this consultation and examination I was referred to a Consultant at Tameside Hospital and received an appointment on the 23rd August.

This was followed by a Colonoscopy, CT scan and MRI scan.

On the 13th September the Consultant diagnosed me with Anal Cancer.

A PET scan was arranged for the 22nd and on the 26th September I attended Christie Hospital for a Consultation and Treatment plan.

I received Chemoradiation treatment from 15th October until 21st November 2018.

During this period of time I was surrounded by the most efficient and compassionate professionals.

My GP Practice monitored my progress throughout and the Practice Nurse and staff helped with my medication needs in their normal efficient and caring manner.

The service from Tameside Hospital was excellent. The Consultant was kind and supportive and arranged a follow-up appointment after my treatment to ensure all was well.

Christie Hospital is amazing. The Professor, Specialist Radiographer and team, Clinical Nurse Specialists and all other Carers I came into contact with had a very positive attitude giving support, encouragement and care to all their patients.

After treatment the Nurse Specialists telephoned for a period of two weeks to monitor progress and to remind me that help was available at all times from them and on the Christie Hotline. I had reviews In January and February with PET scan and MRI scan during February.

30th May 2019, six months after treatment I was given the good news that no cancer had shown on the MRI scan I had in May.

I will be having regular reviews and an annual CT scan for the next four years.

The co-ordination from my GP Practice, Tameside Hospital and Christie was faultless and no time was wasted in my treatment.

Words are inadequate. I cannot express how much I appreciate what the NHS has done for me. I have the greatest admiration for all concerned who give so much to so many in their time of need.

I was given every encouragement and support which in turn gave me great courage and spirit on my journey. A massive THANK YOU!