I was diagnosed with grade 3 breast cancer on 1st April 2005 (April Fools Day).   I went to Glenfield Hospital not really believing that the lump would be anything serious and so was very shocked to be told that I needed a mastectomy, chemotherapy and then radiotherapy.  My first thought was how will I tell my family . 

As it is for most women, losing my breast was difficult to deal with and it was a double whammy when I lost my hair too through chemotherapy.  It was both a surgical and chemical assault on my body and also on my femininity.  When I looked in the mirror I saw a Roy Castle look-a-like staring back at me and I didn't know who I was anymore.  It wasn't just my hair but the lack of eyelashes and eyebrows added to the odd effect.  I'd always thought that if ever I got cancer I would never be able to cope with chemotherapy and would refuse it but when you are faced with the reality of a cancer diagnosis you just get on with it.  Although it was hard, it wasn't as bad as I'd imagined and I've come to the conclusion that the anticipation was much worse than actually having the treatment. 

I finished radiotherapy in December 2005 and now take Femara to try to keep it at bay.  I've had the most wonderful support from my family and friends and am very grateful to them (particularly my husband) for all the love and understanding that they've shown to me during a very difficult year.  It was difficult for my family too and it's often forgotten that they often suffer more than the person having treatment. 

Although it's been a hard year, it's also been a very constructive time as I've learned a lot about myself and what's really important to me.  Cancer makes you face up to your own mortality and puts life into perspective.  Life is good and I want to live it to the full.  My Christian faith has played a large part in my story and although I'm a weak and fearful person, when I've asked God for help, comfort and strength, He has given me all that I've needed and more.  My relationship with Him has grown tremendously through my breast cancer experience.