Dear friends
A few weeks ago I received a letter in the post inviting me for mammogram, as part of a trial for screening younger women, those in the few years approaching 50y, which is the age breast cancer screening starts with the NHS.
So, I went. Ladies, if someone had only told me a fair amount of squashing was involved! I could have mentally prepared myself 🙂 :).
Then, less than 2 weeks later, I was called back for 2nd stage screening. The letter didn’t explain why, I would be told on the day. So, there were several days of anxious waiting. I tried not to think on it. We didn’t tell the children anything; though finally Daur1 heard my dear husband ask about the ‘hospital appointment’ and spoke with me. We had a frank but brief discussion – if there’s anything I’ll be treated and I’m in reasonable good health so I’m sure it’ll be effective 🙂
Another two mammograms confirmed the findings of the first – an area of dense tissue on which the consultant wanted a biopsy done.
Two hours later, an ultrasound scan plus several more mammograms – more unpleasant squashing! – and there was nothing identified to do a biopsy on!! I was given a pink copy of a standard letter with the consultant circling her name saying, we’ll see you again in three years.
I am grateful for modern medicine and more particularly the National Health Service (NHS). We pay into the NHS for as long as we work through national insurance contributions and taxes. There may be lots that people moan about… Yes; I don’t particularly think it’s fair that I have to pay for eye tests and spectacles, which are not optional, I’m very short sighted… But I can’t fault that when you need help, or when investigations need doing, consultants are there and very thorough. I’m grateful for the five women that handled me, most intimately, with care and concern.
Princess Architect 