"My experience of Breast Cancer."

In early October 2012 I had my 1st Mammogram. In early November 2012 I had a 2nd Mammogram, Ultrasound & Biopsy. In mid November 2012 I received my Cancer diagnosis. In early December 2012 I had my 1st surgery. In late December 2012 I received the results and required further surgery. In mid January 2013 I had further surgery. In early March 2013 I was told at my Oncology Clinic appt. (by a Locum Consultant) that I would have my markers done the next week and would commence radiotherapy treatment 2 weeks later. After 2 weeks I contacted my Breast Care nurse as I hadn't received an appt - she checked for me and I was given the date for late April - 15 weeks after surgery - recommended time is 6 weeks after surgery.

During the course of my surgeries I saw 3 surgeons as they couldn't fit me into their 'fail times'. This, obviously, didn't provide continuity but I can't fault any of the Breast Cancer team they were all brilliant and kept me well informed. As for the Oncology Dept, to be told by a Consultant that I would commence Radiotherapy in 2 weeks and then to be kept waiting like this is unacceptable. If the recommendation is Radiotherapy 6 weeks after surgery then that's what it should be . Get more Radiographers, cover Maternity leave, train them up on new machinery. Whatever the problem is, deal with it. All we patients want is closure and to get on with our lives.

For me the ultimate blow was that because I was told I would have Radiotherapy within 2 weeks I took the heartbreaking decision to have my old dog put to sleep. She would have passed away in a few weeks and I didn't think I would be strong enough during Radiotherapy to deal with it. Now ironically, she could have passed away naturally. I could have grieved for her and still been waiting for my treatment.