A patient at Gateshead Health, bravely shares her journey leading up to her endometrial cancer diagnosis and offers valuable tips for women going through a similar experience.
What led you to your appointment?
I started with the occasional discharge which over a few weeks became everyday, I originally thought I had thrush and I self treated twice, with no improvement. I contacted my GP and I was referred to the Womens Health Clinic at the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI). I was then diagnosed and referred to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
What was your experience visiting our department for appointments and follow-ups?
My experience at my first appointment was nothing but kind and caring. Before I went in to the consultation I was asked if I objected to a medical student and a junior doctor being present, which in didn’t, my anxiety about my surgery and all my questions were answered in a way I could understand and I wasn’t made to feel silly or stupid.
My follow up appointments again have been kind and supportive. The nurse and doctor were super kind in helping me cope with my tears and anxiety during the consultation.
How did the Gynae Oncology team make you feel?
The Gynae Oncology Team were super patient during all of my journey, they answered my questions and on numerous occasions the same questions.
The Macmillan Nurses have been my saving grace, at my lowest points they were on the end of a phone, I never felt rushed and that I needed to get off the phone. I’m sure their day was super busy with a huge list of things to do. I felt was wrapped in a warm fluffy blanket.
What is your message to women who are scared to attend hospital appointments?
My message to all women is no question is silly or stupid, don’t hesitate to contact your GP if you have any unusual symptoms.
Any tips for women?
My tips to anyone is:
- Contact your GP.
- Don’t put off having your cervical smear.
- Share your fears & anxieties.
- Contact & speak to your Macmillan Nurse.
- My Macmillan Nurse put me in touch with a counsellor. It was such a help to me.
How are you feeling now?
I’m now 13 months post treatment, I still get really tired and I’ve learnt not to beat myself up if I have an afternoon ‘nana nap’.
I do wake up some mornings feeling a little flat, then I remember how lucky I am to live in the United Kingdom and have access to such a wonderful Macmillan Nurses and NHS doctors.
I have contacted my Macmillan Nurse on a number of times, she’s always reassured me and taken action when it’s been necessary. At the end of each day I write down one positive thought or feeling and I’ll look back at this in January 2025.