"Excellent Support"

I have been attending regular physio sessions following a mastectomy throughout chemo and radiotherapy treatments as I was originally experiencing cording and pain to the lymph node clearance site.

The care and support that I have received has made a vast difference to me - not only in terms of greater mobility and flexibility but in terms of my improved mental well being and positivity. I have found all the staff team to be highly professional, caring and patient. The receptionists are very welcoming and helpful, despite the many pressures on them. The Physio Team Leader has seen me regularly and has always had time to listen to my concerns before suggesting a variety of exercises and sharing tips for easier management. She has also performed regular 'hands on' therapy which has helped me to maintain - as best we can - a level of flexibility and movement, given the effects of radiotherapy on my implant. This has meant that I can carry out similar at home.

She suggested that I attend the graded exercise programme as a way of re-introducing regular gentle exercise into my life after such a lengthy period of non-activity. I was slightly concerned that I might be stretched beyond my abilities or alternatively that my competitive streak might surface and I injure myself rather than lose face, which I know would have been a real risk had I immediately attended a local community gym unsupervised.

No fear, the staff have devised a programme that suits all participants and they closely monitor each individual to ensure they perform at a level that best suits them. I enjoyed the sessions and think the system of weekly self-recording is a helpful method that assists improvement and consistency across environments. My confidence has greatly improved since starting these sessions as a consequence.

I have a fair way yet to go, with a further reconstruction operation, yet to be scheduled. I have learned a lot and believe I will be better able to manage my post-operative condition, which in turn will have a positive impact on my overall well being throughout my early recovery.

I consider myself very lucky to have been introduced to this service and I would highly recommend it to others.