“I initially had a letter post mammogram asking me to attend the Primrose unit at Derriford as some calcifications had been spotted. I attended and had an ultrasound where they then performed a stereotactic ultrasound (a strange procedure). This came back as inconclusive so back up for another one. I was told that calcifications are common and probably won’tneed treating.”
“I had a thing called DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). I had never heard of this and no lumps are felt at this stage as it is still in the nipple ducts but can spread if not detected early enough. I was very shocked at this diagnosis, the only bit of my body I liked was my boobs. After many tears and research about my condition. I then saw the amazing Mr Dixon who is a plastic surgeon. He explained that I was a candidate for a DIEP flap. They give you a tummy tuck and insert part of that tissue to perform an implant. It is an extremely long operation (10 hours).”
“My cancer was ER+ which means caused by too much oestrogen. Sadly there is a side effect of painful joints, especially knees and hips. But I have arthritis there, so it seems to inflame it. But I am alive and 1 year post-op. I have forgotten the discomfort of the first few months and was lucky not to have radio/chemotherapy.”
“SO LADIES & MEN NEVER FORGET THAT MAMMOGRAM, IT CAN REALLY SAVE YOUR LIFE. I am extremely grateful to the doctors and nurses who looked after me and am blessed we have an NHS who still do this screening.”