"A breast cancer journey"

In January my wife went for what she thought was just a routine mammogram at the local mobile unit. A few days later she was told to attend the breast cancer clinic for further investigation the following week. The diagnosis was a malignant tumour. So began a seven month journey of hospital visits, waiting, tests, consultations, culminating in a successful operation, a course of radiotherapy and an ongoing course of anti-cancer drugs.

Anyone who has been through cancer or accompanied someone on the journey will know the harrowing experience that it is. It is painted on a canvas of fear, courage, hope and pain. But while there are many dark clouds, there are also glimmers of light that break through the darkness and occasionally some magnificent shafts of light that burst through the gloom.

Our experience took place in the Belfast City Hospital. The consultant was Mr Irwin and his team of breast care nurses, notably Kerry and Kathryn. These people and the rest of the administrative staff are unsung heroes whose compassion, professionalism, kindness, empathy and general concern is second to none. Contrary to common opinion about the NHS, I have nothing but the highest regard for people of this calibre. 

The Belfast City Hospital Cancer Care unit, including the radiography team are quite simply the best. My wife and I are deeply grateful for their work and attitude.

Thankyou so much.