"Following a routine mammogram ..."

What I liked

Following a routine mammogram I was recalled for further investigation. This came as a complete shock as I had no previous symptoms, was just about to undergo my third major foot operation the following week and returned from holiday to find the letter advising me to attend the Linda McCartney Centre that day. On contacting the centre the following morning I was able to speak to the Consultant Radiographer who arranged for me to attend the following day to undergo further investigation. On examination it transpired that I required two biopsies to be undertaken and given my impending surgery the following week, the results were rushed through and I was able to receive the fantastic news later that day that the lumps were in fact benign. At a time when both my family and I were under a lot of emotional pressure, I cannot praise the work of the staff involved in my treatment and care that day. Everyone was so helpful, polite and empathetic at a time that was extremely traumatic for me and receiving the results so quickly enabled me to approach my operation feeling somewhat relieved at the outcome which could have resulted in a very different outcome.

What could be improved

As someone awaiting the results of a biopsy which would determine whether I had breast cancer or not, I found it quite difficult to sit in the waiting area on the ground floor being surrounded by all the posters, literature etc; without feeling that it was inevitable that the results would confirm the lumps were malignant. The only expression I can use to explain what I mean is that it was all very much 'in your face' and while I understand totally that for someone who has been confirmed as having breast cancer this is absolutely fantastic and there is so much support available I wonder if there could be a separate refreshment area where patients can wait for the results of their bipsoies etc;?

Anything else?

In summary, I cannot thank the Centre and all the staff there for their professionalism, their care and support during a very emotional period. In addition, the speed with which my case was dealt with was excellent and I cannot express enough my appreciation for all that was done for me. I realise that I am one of the lucky ones and that the outcome could have been very different and this has heightened my awareness of breast cancer. Consequently I have already started plans to do some fundraising when I am recovered from my operation and as a start have just purchased Xmas cards that contribute a donation to Breast Cancer. My sincere thanks again.