Vicky's story
I was diagnosed in June 2020. I was just by placing fake tan on... I found a lump. I had a appointment at the doctors - they waited for hormone levels, then passed me on to the breast clinic on a 2 week referral. I had 2 mammograms, one of a 360 range and then a scan with contrast, then I was told there and then - i had stage 3 breast 🎀 cancer.
In Lockdown..covid times , who forgets that now..I was on my own. I didn't take in the information straightaway. I had confirmation in July and had a lumpectomy with reconstruction, in the August, did I say covid..yes..on my own..in a green hospital clean hospital with my parents waiting outside in the car..
Recovery was tough..I didnt know what was going on but so lucky with lincoln hospital and the staff..they were incredible..I believe connection is important that was certain with all inclusive of surgery staff.
Initially I was told no need for chemo..but it was decided that I had to. Confused at this..i asked for family gene testing to be done and they also asked me if i wanted children.if so I'd have to attend .Leicester hospital alone but this could delay treatment.
Along came October treatment started in Grantham again..6 rounds of poison..18 rounds of radiotherapy
I returned to work within 1 year..and changed my job..work.life balance was important, along came the news of BRCA 2 and pal B gene positive..so high risk of c bomb returning.
This is where all my family members got tested ..my siblings and father were also positive..high risk of ovarian and breast cancer in women and prostate breats and pancreas in men..both my sister and I went through more surgery to risk reduce anything occurring. Ovaries and fallopian tubes out and double mastectomy. 1 with 1 without reconstruction, I had to wait until each surgery had recovery so 3 surgeries in 3 years 5 in total in 5 years
During this time of my mastectomy I met Alex through braca chat events..how she and the warriors changed my support network.
During this time my mum passed away.so dealing with grief too..back to work I went, helping campaigns to support breast cancer and share my story.
My support was online with wigs for heroes and her bodywear brca sisters and chat..along with all the other warriors ❤️
Early intervention matters - prioritise your health.
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