Jacqueline's breast cancer story

Jacqueline was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2021 at the age of 56.

How I was diagnosed

I refused the first mammogram I was offered. As I found the literature very confusing.

For about 6 to 8 months I had been getting pain in the left side of my left breast. I had put it down to overstretching and age related wear and tear. I was then offered another mammogram and decided to go.

Within 3 days of the mammogram I had a letter to attend further screening. I had a biopsy done and had to wait for the results. I knew I had cancer (just a gut feeling along with the mammogram image). I got the call just under 2 weeks later confirming it was breast cancer.

My feelings about the diagnosis

I was absolutely fine and decided it is what it is. And there was nothing good in getting upset. So I just got up and got on with it. My husband hasn't stopped crying. He was devastated. As he is disabled I am his full time carer. 

My decision about treatment

I had my appointment with the consultant about my treatment options. I am due to go into hospital in May for a lumpectomy.

My thoughts about the diagnosis

I didn’t notice anything obviously wrong about my breast. Or see anything unusual about it. The consultant at the screening clinic also couldn't find anything obvious. The consultant also said that it would not have been discovered without the routine mammogram that I had.

My message is if you are invited for mammogram please do go. And if you notice anything unusual get it checked out.