"My care has been nothing short of outstanding"

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of this year. I was instantly terrified. This diagnosis came out of nowhere, and arrived unwanted and uninvited. Within seconds my life had completely changed. Being surrounded by media coverage of poor NHS care and extensive waiting times only added to my terror.

However, I quickly realised to ignore these stories and to focus on the care I was receiving first hand. From the day I lifted the phone to my GP to report a problem, to where I am now, my care has been nothing short of outstanding.

My care has been delivered with kindness and compassion, and with efficiency and organisation, in line with the most up to date research leading my care. My care is constantly moving forward in a timely manner, I feel that my best interests are taken into consideration and I thank the breast oncology team for this.

Special thanks to Theresa, breast care nurse, who has been present at all milestone clinic appointments. Her presence has been invaluable to myself and my family in navigating my care, and providing much needed reassurance when we needed it most. She talks to me in a language I understand.

I welcome her experience and advice, which is always positive and realistic. Upon my darkest days, when hearing stories of other women who have died from breast cancer, I would remember Theresa's early advice of my cancer being curable which always helped to lift the worry.

My chemotherapy was delivered in the oncology unit where everyday I was reminded of the safe hands I was in. From the moment I arrive, I am greeted by the admin and support staff who always welcomed me with a smile, and to my amazement would always remember my name.

I'm aware of the thousands of people who have walked through these doors, but for staff to remember my name and my circumstances was both astounding and heart warming.

I cannot thank the chemotherapy nurses enough for their kindness and empathy when delivering my care, and for always going the extra mile to ensure I was comfortable and well looked after.

This is something I observed through the care of every patient in the unit. They are a truly an outstanding team.

The care I have received will stay with me forever.