Breast cancer survivor’s screening plea

Joanne Richards

A breast cancer survivor is highlighting the importance of attending routine screening appointments after having a lifesaving mammogram.

By sharing her story this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Joanne Richards is hoping to encourage others to attend cancer screening appointments.

The 55 year old mother of three was diagnosed with breast cancer after attending a mammogram, which she was invited to two years early as part of a screening programme trial.

She received radiotherapy treatment at New Cross Hospital, part of The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, followed by a course of the drug Tamoxifen for five years, and the drug Anastrozole for a further five years.

She explained: “I was 48 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The area I lived in was trialing early mammograms and I was lucky to be called in. I had no symptoms, no lumps – I went along feeling confident and happy to tick the checked box.

“I was quickly called back for further testing and a biopsy. I knew it was bad news. I was devastated. My sister had passed away in 2010 with breast cancer. I was so scared.

“I consider myself extremely lucky. The hardest part was waiting for test results. Once you know the plan and exactly what you’re dealing with, it becomes easier. A week after diagnosis I had a mastectomy on my left breast with immediate reconstruction. Five tumours were found and taken away plus lymph nodes. A sample was sent to America and thankfully the score came back low indicating that chemo would be of no benefit to me.

“My surgeon was wonderful. She did a fabulous job. I also joined the Friends of Breast Cancer Support Group based in Wolverhampton.”

Joanne, of Penkridge, is clear that screening appointments can be lifesaving.

She added: “Go to your screenings when you get invited. It doesn’t hurt and it definitely saved my life. I was so lucky to get called two years early.

“This has been a terrible experience for me but so much worse for my family. Without them I would never have survived. I am truly blessed and thankful for each day.”

Anyone registered with a GP as female will be invited for NHS breast screening every three years between the ages of 50 and 71. You’ll get a letter in the post inviting you.

Read more about the Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign.