I am 57 years old, so breast screening is part of my life checks.
I went for the usual check as you do, on the 7th May 2014, you don't think any more of it, until you get a phone call from home asking you to call the BSU. Total meltdown, heart beating faster, stomach churning over, cold sweats, terrified your life is about to end, but the journey had only just begun.
The phone call was the hardest one ever I had to make, they said they were not happy with my results, so could I go in next week, 8 days later for another screening. That was like a bombshell, and emotions took over. They fitted me in 2 days later. This was a very difficult and emotional visit but had to be done. I had another screening, examination and 3 biopsies. I had to wait longer than normal for my results, my appointment was cancelled & re-scheduled, because of the bank holiday, this wasn't easy, but it was the old waiting game that had to be played.
My appointment at last came around, only to be told the worst, that they still were not happy, so the next stage was to see The Consultant.
Another appointment was made, and I spent 4 hours at the hospital, seeing various medical staff, and completing important paperwork. My last person to see was The Consultant, and to my amazement I was told that I would be having surgery in 11 days time for my Ductal Carsonoma.
The day arrived and I was at hospital by 7.15am, and home by 4.30p.m. I have been in recovery for 3 weeks and went for my appointment today 11th July, and got my ALL CLEAR.
What a journey... Tears, emotions, fear all hit me. Today is the first day of the rest of my life. It wasnt my time, I feel so LUCKY.. My journey was 8 weeks long, which seemed forever.
Enjoy your life, no-one knows when it's your time, mine isn't just yet.
Ferndown, United Kingdom