"Scary journey but exceptional care given"

After my routine mammogram in January, I was recalled 2 weeks after as something was detected during the review. I needed to have 2 biopsies and markers put in, the radiographer and doctor were exceptional, putting me at ease during the procedure! They really took the time to explain everything to me of what was happening and what would happen when the results came back.

2 weeks later i had an appointment with Mr Whiteside, breast consultant, who delivered my unfortunate results of having breast cancer! He talked through what would happen next, explaining everything with great care, knowing i was in shock (even though i knew what i was going to be told!). He didn't rush the appointment, he give me and my husband time to ask questions and made sure i would get all the help and support i would need that day and the days/weeks ahead! The breast specialist nurse then took my husband and me into a private room to talk us through the mastectomy pack the hospital put together. She didn't sugarcoat anything which we really appreciated, she answered all our questions, discussed options and assured me I could phone the specialist nurses at anytime if i had any questions. Aideen explained what would happen next before the date of my mastectomy, what tests i would need to have and a rough timeline.

CT scan, I was fortunate to get a cancellation the next day, this was my biggest fear incase the cancer had spread from the breast/lymph nodes! Around 10 days later Mr Whiteside called me with the results and he also told me he wouldnt be doing my surgery, which was something he really didnt need to but i appreciated.

Pre-op assessment, Whiteabbey hospital, the nurses were lovely and put me at ease when doing the different tests.

Date for surgery - late March. I needed to attend a pre-admittance appointment in Antrim, this covered everything that was done in Whiteabbey so i wondered if it was necessary although it did let me see where i needed to go on the day of admittance.

Day of surgery, nurse completed a few checks, give me a gown and told me to change. In the toilet! This is the one thing i dont feel was appropriate, to have to change in a public toilet into hospital gown and dressing gown!

The anesthetist came to talk to me to explain what would happen, asked me questions and give me time to ask questions. Next was the surgeon/consultant, Mr McFall, he was so lovely! He had such a calming manor about him and really put me at ease!

Surgery over, just waiting results but i know i will be treated with great care and given attention required.

So far my breast cancer journey has been scary but with the exceptional care i have already been given and the promptness of appointments etc I know i will get through this!