In 2023, I visited my GP as I was experiencing breast pain, which was not normal for me, and I thought it was hormone related. I wanted to discuss starting HRT, but my GP found a lump and the focus of the appointment suddenly changed. 3 weeks later, I was diagnosed with ER+ grade 2 invasive ductal breast cancer. I was 49 at the time and hearing the diagnosis left me feeling numb and in shock.
As I am physically disabled, I was scared about how I would manage my treatment or if treatment would be offered at all. Once I’d met my medical team and a bespoke treatment plan was in place, I felt more reassured and confident that I would make a full recovery.
I had a lumpectomy under local anaesthetic, 5 days of radiotherapy and I was prescribed tamoxifen for 5 years. I did not have a lymph node biopsy or chemotherapy, as these were not recommended due to my disability.
Emotionally, it was a rollercoaster. I stayed positive and took things one day at a time, but there were also difficult moments, especially when I found myself questioning if my treatment was enough. When treatment ended, I felt lost without the safety net of regular hospital visits - it was daunting. I got through it all with the support of family, close friends and my medical team.
I am also grateful for the support offered by Breast Cancer Now, in particular Someone Like Me and the Moving Forward Course. Connecting with others who had similar experiences to mine and truly understood what I was going through made a real difference. It reminded me I was not alone. I’d love to pay this forward, so if you need support with your diagnosis, treatment, or adjusting to life after treatment, please do get in touch.
Emotionally, it was a rollercoaster. I stayed positive and took things one day at a time, but there were also difficult moments.