How do I tell them that I have cancer?
In May 2022, I went to Buxton for a routine mammogram.
I then received the results, and as I opened the letter, presumed that everything would be ok. How many of us do that?
But the letter stated that the mammogram had picked up something, and I was called to Chesterfield for further tests. I wasn’t too concerned. I had no lumps or bumps. I just thought they were being thorough.
In chesterfield I had a further mammogram and a biopsy. The nurse said it looked like calcification, but they needed to check. I was booked back in a week later, and again I wasn’t unduly worried. Friends had had calcification and they had been ok.
I went to my appointment on my own the week after, and the nurse came to collect me, but instead of my appointment being with her, she said we were going to see the consultant. It was at that point that I knew…I knew that it was not good news!
The consultant, who was wearing a mask, looked at me and said you’ve got cancer, in two places. We are going to have to operate.
You will need a mastectomy, radio therapy and chemotherapy. We need to know if you would like a reconstruction as if you do, this will extend the operation time.
At that pivotal point in my life, my whole world crashed. I had cancer. The news exploded in my head.
I couldn’t take in what the consultant was saying…I just sat there sobbing!
I was given another appointment to see the consultant a few weeks later and was booked in for a CT scan. I was asked to decide what I wanted to do by this next appointment.
As I walked to the car in my numb state, I kept thinking what am I going to tell my husband and daughters…
How do I tell them that I have cancer?
By sharing my story, I hope to offer support to others facing cancer, and to raise awareness about the experience. Sharing our experiences can be a source of strength, and together, we can make this path a little easier.