Rocking the Pink this Month!

October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness month, with the annual Wear It Pink day taking place on 20th October. This event encourages individuals to wear pink attire or accessories as a demonstration of their support for breast cancer awareness and research.

As the most prevalent cancer among women in the UK, breast cancer affects one woman every 10 minutes, it doesn't discriminate, it also affects men too! The majority of cases occur in women aged 50 and above, although over 10,000 women under 50 are diagnosed with breast cancer annually in the UK, this including myself.

My Breast Cancer Story...

Three months before discovering a lump in my right breast, I endured a terrible spell of sickness and illnesses. My three-year-old son, attending nursery, seemed to pass every ailment on to me. At the time, it seemed typical for a toddler's parent. However, in hindsight, my immune system was severely depleted. I found the lump on the 1st December, 2018, a date etched in my memory. Having a mother who battled breast cancer in her early fifties, had made me vigilant. Yet at 39, fit and healthy, I didn't suspect anything serious. Assuming it was a cyst or fatty tissue, I consulted my GP. Given my family history, the GP referred me to the local hospital's breast clinic for tests.

At the clinic, after examination and a biopsy, the presence of three healthcare professionals — a consultant and two nurses — at my results appointment signaled to me that the news would be grim. Their numbers alone implied it was serious. The diagnosis of breast cancer, despite my intuition, was still a profound shock. Overwhelmed, I struggled to absorb the flood of information and my first thoughts were of my child's future and who would care for him if I were gone.

With time, as I began to process the situation, the question wasn't just about handling the diagnosis and treatment myself, but how to shield my child and husband from the ordeal ahead. Throughout this challenging period, the support of family and close friends was invaluable.

Treatment

A lumpectomy followed (where the cancerous lump was taken away) and my lymph glands were removed. I was lucky as the cancer had not spread into them, this a good indicator that it hadn't gone anywhere else into my body. I started chemotherapy, every three weeks for a total of 6 sessions. It lasted just over 4 months until the middle of July 2018 which was really tough. I lost my hair and suffered many side effects of the treatment. I knew it was a necessary evil to ensure it got any of cancerous cells that may still be lurking. I then had 20 consecutive days of radiotherapy. I also had cancelling with a local cancer charity and holistic treatments including reflexology to help support my recovery.

While undergoing chemotherapy, life goes on around you, but it temporarily hinders you from fully living. Socializing is limited due to a weakened immune system, and the treatment's side effects can be quite debilitating. Personally, my work had to be put on hold as well. Constant disinfection becomes a routine, somewhat reminiscent of living through Covid and lockdown.

In Remission

Having achieved and surpassed the crucial 5-year mark, I am currently in remission, significantly reducing the likelihood of a recurrence. I was diagnosed with a less common type of breast cancer called triple negative cancer, which represents 15% of all breast cancer cases and is known for its aggressiveness and limited treatment choices. Unfortunately, two friends I met during treatment were not as fortunate, as their breast cancers were more advanced at diagnosis and recurred after the initial treatments.

Prevention

Since my diagnosis with breast cancer, prevention has become an integral part of my daily life. I've learned to manage stress more effectively through mindfulness, meditation, and adopting a new perspective on life. I'm more aware of the chemicals present in everyday items like food, cosmetics, and cleaning products, and I've minimised my exposure wherever possible. My diet is now full of healthy, balanced, and nourishing foods, and I consume very little alcohol. Regular exercise and activity are part of my routine, including weight-bearing exercises. My consultant recommended strength training because research indicates it can lower hormone levels such as estrogen and insulin, which are linked to cancer development and progression. It also helps to decrease inflammation and boost the immune system, enabling the body to function properly and ward off diseases. Early detection is crucial, and I firmly believe it's the reason I'm still here today.

Why I am sharing this personal story...

It's important for both men and women to regularly examine their breasts and armpits to become familiar with what is normal for them. Be vigilant for any abnormalities or changes that don't feel right.

Signs to watch for include: a lump in the breast or armpit, thickened skin, puckering, dimpling, an unusual rash, discharge, or crusting, and changes in the nipple or breast size. If you have concerns or uncertainties, consult your GP promptly. Early detection is key and can lead to higher survival rates.

For more information please see: - How should I check my breasts? - NHS (www.nhs.uk), Touch, Look, Check | Breast Cancer Now

Reference:

NHS, 'how I should check my breasts', Date published: 22 July 2021

Breast Cancer Now - Research and Support Charity, 'Signs & Symptoms of Breast Cancer' Date published: July 2021