Julia’s story
Age: 61 years
Diagnosis: secondary breast cancer
In 2016 I found a lump under my arm and immediately went to see my GP who referred me to the breast cancer clinic at Good Hope Hospital. Following a series of investigations I was given the devastating news that I had breast cancer and that I would need to undergo surgery (lumpectomy), chemotherapy and then radiotherapy.
Following surgery in December 2016 I had a CT scan and bone scan only to find the cancer cells had spread. Understandably I was shocked and very worried but my oncology team suggested starting me on a new treatment which was funded by the cancer drugs fund. At the same time I was told about the Cancer Support Centre so I decided to find out if there was any further support I could have through the centre.
The welcome I received from the staff was warm and reassuring so I enrolled on a six week wellbeing course where I could access a range of holistic therapies. I treated myself to a massage or some reflexology after each of the seven courses of chemotherapy. Not only did I benefit from the therapies it also gave me a chance to talk to the therapists about any concerns or fears I had without worrying my family.
Once I had completed my chemotherapy I continued with accessing holistic services and have also benefitted from attending a well-being and resilience course which helped me build up my confidence to return to my job in the NHS in 2018.
Five years on since my diagnosis I continue with maintenance treatment to prevent my cancer returning but am pleased to say I am cancer free. I continue to benefit from holistic therapies at the CSC and firmly believe that my successful treatment has been as a result of the support from my oncology team and the help from the wonderful staff at the Cancer Support Centre.