Breast examination is worthwhile (My Experience of Breast Cancer)

Member Name: bibliomad

Product:	My Experience of Breast Cancer
Date:	12/07/08 (39 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Something can be done very rapidly

Disadvantages: Hopefully none

I found a lump under my breast last week and saw my GP within days. She referred me to my local breast screening unit and I saw them this week. I hadn't really considered breast cancer as it was under the crease of my breast, but they were able to tell me then and there.

I go into hospital next week for a deep wide excision (sometimes called a lumpectomy), and have been very impressed by how clearly everything has been explained. I do feel that they give a lot of support through quite a shocking experience.

I know one of the breast cancer nurses, and she has had breast cancer herself, so is very understanding when you suddenly think of something else you want to ask.

I told people immediately and have been surprised by how the word cancer still really gets to people, as I have a very positive attitude. After all, I didn't feel ill the day before I went to see the consultant, so why should I change and suddenly become an invalid?

I am not looking forward to even two nights in hospital, but who does? I will have to see how things go after that. I know I will need radiotherapy for three weeks on a daily basis, and have over a journey of over an hour to get to the hospital, so that is a nuisance.

My main thought is that I am lucky that it has been caught early, and that survival rates have improved so much. I think I have fewer problems than my family, as they have to sit back and watch and wait.

With all the bad things that are said about the NHS, I have received excellent attention.

Summary: Breast examination made me see my GP and led to early referral