My Story

On the eve of my 49th birthday, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The doctors told me that the small lump I had found was malignant and that a mastectomy was the best way to treat it. I felt as though my life was coming to an end. The diagnosis felt like an attack on my sexuality and roles as a wife, mother and everything I associated with womanhood.

With courage though and the unfailing help of my husband and son, together with family, friends and colleagues, I faced up to the necessary surgery and treatments. I feel blessed, as my surgeon, Zoe Winters, is a strong advocate of breast reconstruction, which I decided to go ahead with after some consideration.

Getting back to normal

Healing from such major surgery took slightly longer than I had imagined. Although I did not work for about three months after the surgery, this did not adversely affect my career. Within weeks of returning to the office, I was asked to take on a much bigger role.

As the Regional Director for a charitable trust called Business in the Community, my responsibilities are tremendous. Although I now tire more easily, my employer has been flexible and understanding of my health constraints.

Now, five years on, I feel confident in both my work and the way that my body has healed. Thanks to my breast reconstruction, which followed my mastectomy, I feel confident wearing a wide range of clothing, even strapless dresses and swimming costumes. For me, the journey is behind me and I am looking forward to a long, healthy and fulfilling life.

I trust that the Cancer and Careers booklet and website becomes a helpful resource for women, and their carers, who are at an earlier stage of the journey.