My Diagnosis Story

What symptoms led up to your diagnosis?

I noticed puckering an a thickened area on top of my breast.

What tests did your doctor do, and what was this experience like?

I had an appointment with a doctor in less than a week. She examined me and told me I'd have it investigated at Aberdeen hospital as soon as she could manage. She was very gentle but down to earth, confirmed my suspicions. 

Upon learning about your diagnosis- what happened next?

I had a hospital appointment within a fortnight which entailed flying to Aberdeen. My friend in Aberdeen accompanied to the breast clinic. The morning began with a mammogram just after 9am and by 2pm I'd had an ultrasound, needle biopsy and core biopsy and a meeting with my consultant and a breast care nurse. Everything was explained in terms that were easy to understand. I was told to expect to have a WLE and lymph clearance about mid December followed by possible chemo and radiotherapy. I would also have medication to block oestrogen. In the end my op was scheduled for 4th January and I had a different surgeon but I had been advised of this. I had phone nos for the breast care nurses and was able to see my local Macmillan nurse who did liaison between Aberdeen and Kirkwall. The local community nurses were excellent when I had problems with my drain and it was removed by our practice nurse on Jan 11th. Everyone was very supportive although they were very busy during my 3 nights in hospital. I had no chemo but began anastrazole at the end of Jan and had 3 weeks radiotherapy back in Aberdeen ending on 13th April. Doing well but tiredness kicks in at times and I still have some redness, itching and pulling. to anyone having radiotherapy, and post surgery, do your exercises religiously and on both sides. I concentrated on my op side and had some problems initially with my other arm during radiotherapy. I would like to have seen a physio as I only had a leaflet to follow.