"First and world class service would totally..."

Being diagnosed with breast cancer has been the most difficult and emotionally draining thing I have ever had to deal with. I was initially referred by my GP to my local hospital in East Kent.

The diagnosis put me into a state of shock but the non negotiable treatment plan offered made me feel traumatised. The only thing they could offer me was a full masectomy with no reconstruction in 36 hours time. Having done research I was very aware of the postcode lottery that existed and was determined not to become its victim. I went to see my GP and insisted on a second opinion from Guys.

Since a week after my GP referral the care and treatment at Guys has been outstanding. I have seen most of the team and they are all excellent. The professor and team actively involve you in the treatment plan and think nothing of taking the time necessary to make sure you fully understand everything so are able to make informed decisions. 80% of women being treated at Guys have immediate reconstructions.

The treatment available is most certainly progreasive and is equal to other leading specialist breast cancer units worldwide. Sadly the cancer post code lottery does not only affect people from rural locations but those resident in some London boroughs. A friend's mother had a masectomy for breast cancer and a reconstruction was not even mentioned. A year post surgery the mother cannot bear the thought of further surgery so will ask not for a reconstruction. The mother who is actively involved in local breast cancer support groups,has not met anyone who has had or even been offered an immediate breast reconstruction.

I am very happy with the outstanding quality of the care and treatment I have received at Guys and can highly recommend .