Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK. One in seven women in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. If it’s detected early, there’s a good chance of recovery. This is why it’s important for women to regularly check their breasts for any changes and see their GP.
Maria, a patient at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust was diagnosed with breast cancer after noticing a change and shares her experience:
What lead to your appointment/background about your diagnosis?
I felt what was like a spot in my cleavage, and my husband said it looked like a dimple. I knew I needed to get it checked.
What was your experience visiting our department for appointments?
My appointments with Gateshead Health were during COVID, I was alone when I went for most of the appointments, but I was made to feel supported, reassured, and looked after. The staff were brilliant.
What is your message to women who are scared to get checked?
My advice is simple, if something does not look or feel right, get it checked. I remember my cancer nurse, squeezing my hand and saying thank you. I looked at her in disbelief, but she reassured me, thank you for checking your breasts, we have found this early and it can and will be treated. Please set a reminder on your phone every month to check those boobs, an early diagnosis is crucial. Please do not be scared be aware of how your body looks and feels.
If you are diagnosed, the word cancer is terrifying. I was so unbelievably angry but then I knew I had to turn that anger into determination. I was adamant that cancer would not take over my life, so I went into the experience with determination and positivity, and a fire in my belly, this would not beat me!
I had the most amazing family and friends who supported me and walked every step with me. Allow yourself to be supported, be honest with people, and if you don’t want to answer a text or talk about it, be honest. This is your journey and you make the rules and cancer you are just a hurdle; I am going to stamp on.
Any tips for women going through this?
If I had to advise anyone, please keep checking, get to know your boobs and anything you are not sure of, do not put it off, get to the doctor and get it checked out. If you are diagnosed, own your journey and put yourself first. Listen to the professionals and take their advice.
How are you feeling now?
I am currently on medication for five years. I am living my best life, I regularly, raise money for cancer charities. I raise awareness of breast cancer, through discussing cancer with people and social media. I can have my moments and any cancer advert, has me in tears. I am always open and will answer any questions truthfully. This is your journey and through sharing, that journey could and will help someone else begin theirs.
