"To all involved in the treatment of breast cancer"

Dear Breast Care Staff Members, I am in the process of celebrating my 54th Birthday and cannot end it without letting you all know how important you are to me and my family. I had grade two breast cancer, diagnosed, by chance in October 2004. I had discovered an unusual “lump” in my right breast (Which by the way both equate to not much larger than a nasty wasp sting!) while showering. I went to my G.P., who although not too concerned, advised it best be checked out….. I had a mammogram, oh the poor person that had to do that! You know the size of the plate on which to place one’s breast….. mine covered barely one tenth of the space. But. Something was noticed. I was then taken, without any concern on my part for an ultrasound scan. (My husband was in the waiting area). Both my breasts were checked (another challenge!) and the lovely radiographer, and then (my memory blurs at this point) perhaps the doctor? gently advised me that “the lump in my right breast was most likely a cyst, but had I noticed the lump in my left breast?” I had not. I was forty three years old, with two divine sons aged (at the time of initial diagnosis) thirteen and fourteen years of age. And I would never have gone back to the clinic. I had already felt I was imposing on somebody else’s much needed space. But the team at Worthing saved my life. Simples. Cutting to the chase, I had surgery, chemo, radiotherapy and loads of drugs. My mouth ulcerated. My brain turned to mush, my hair fell out. But. Thanks to all of you, I am still here, and fighting fit! So, as my 54th Birthday fades, it was always my goal to get here unscathed…. Almost achieved that but just really want to send a virtual but genuine hug to all of you. Much love and many thanks, Michelle Marks-Thomson.