I was 40 years old and getting on with my wonderful life without a care in the world. Little did I know that the small slightly painful lump in my right breast was going to change my life forever!
I went to my first appointment to see the local GP with my husband Keith. I was told the “lump cannot be breast cancer because breast cancer is not painful”. I felt the relief flow through the room but the Doctor insisted on me having a scan. That was Monday, less than 24 hours later the Doctor called and asked if I could pop in and see him. “Nova you have a couple of lumps but there’s nothing to be worried about and will probably be cysts. You’ll need to have a sample taken” I was in shock as this was not what I was expecting! But as all women do we just smile and get on with it.
I remember the day as if it was only yesterday, Friday 2pm to be precise. I had to meet Keith at the Doctors as he was flying back into town from a business trip. He gave me a big hug held my hand and in we went. The Doctor took my hand and simply said “Nova you have Breast Cancer and you will need to see a specialist ASAP”
Within 2 hours of leaving the doctors surgery the specialist contacted me and an appointment was made to see him on Monday morning. When we got to the hospital we were called in to meet Dr Darcy. He started to make small talk but quickly changed his tone and started to explain he could only guarantee 3 things. Firstly I would require surgery, secondly I will be having radiation therapy and finally I will loose my hair once I start the chemotherapy.
Now, some 7 years later I’m no longer required to take the anti cancer medications and until recently have been in great health. However 3 months ago after feeling unwell I went to see my Doctor again. I was losing weight and I feared the cancer had returned. The Doctor immediately sent me to have a colonoscopy. After the procedure I met with the specialist to discuss the results, I was shaking and to make it worse Keith was asked to sit outside so I was on my own.
As I left the day surgery I found Keith sitting outside on a wall. He immediately jumped up and asked what the doctor had said. I told him that I had both good and bad news. The good news being that the cancer had not returned and the bad news I have been diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease and it’s considered chronic. I might sound funny but the most frustrating thing was the fact I had only just stopped taking my daily anti cancer drugs and now I have been told that I would be taking a plethora of drugs for the rest of my life.
Having been through all of the above I still consider myself fortunate! Working at Novacorr Healthcare we regularly meet clients with far worse health issues than mine and having gained experienced we are able empathise with them, listen to their needs and in conjunction with the OT or health professional deliver a product that will improve their quality of life.
