Susan Weidner, a patient at Gateshead Health, bravely shares her journey leading up to her diagnosis and offers valuable tips for women going through a similar experience.
What led to your appointment?
I had fortunately always been very fit and healthy and rarely needed to visit my GP. At the start of 2023, my family and I were very excited to visit my eldest daughter and her family, including my grandson, Solomon. Whilst away, Solomon made the most of getting cuddles from his Granny, and it was when he was jumping up on me that I became aware of a pain in my abdomen.
My husband encouraged me to see my GP about the pain, and thankfully, I broke the habit of a lifetime and listened to him! A very attentive locum GP did a thorough assessment including blood tests, one of which was a tumour marker for ovarian cancer (Ca-125). My Ca-125 came back very high, which resulted in my referral to the hospital for scans leading to my cancer diagnosis. This was a huge shock to my family, and me as I had very little in terms of symptoms.
What was your experience visiting our department for appointments and follow ups?
From my first visit to the department, I have been overwhelmed by the time and care staff have shown my family and me. Understandably I felt anxious about the unknown at the start of my journey, however I felt very confident in the fact that I was being so well cared for.
How did the Gynae Oncology team make you feel?
I cannot speak highly enough of the Gynaeoncology team at the QE – there are too many names to mention and thank, between the outpatient department, ward 26, radiology and theatres.
I was under the care of Ms Ang, and her team, who from the moment I met her made me feel that I was in very safe hands. I had every stage of my care explained to me, and while daunting really made me feel valued as a person. I never felt rushed in clinic appointments or made to feel any question was a silly one.
The Gynaeoncology nurse specialist team was a huge support throughout and helped navigate me and my family through my care in such a kind and compassionate way. I must also say how grateful I am for the care I received from the tissue viability team and everyone on ward 26; there are not enough words to express how grateful I am!
What is your message to women who are scared to attend hospital appointments?
I would reassure women who are feeling scared. The idea of attending appointments and follow-ups can be daunting for fear of ‘what is to come,’ but this is a normal response.
Yes, difficult things that you may not want to hear are discussed, but the Gynaeoncology team is made up of caring people who have your well-being at the heart of their work. If I needed to ask a question or get clarity about my care, there was always somebody I could contact.
Any tips for women?
I would encourage women to listen to their body, only you will be aware of any changes, and I would encourage you not to ignore them. A cancer diagnosis is not something any of us wants or expects, and although difficult, try to maintain a positive mental attitude.
There will be times when you do not feel great emotionally or physically, questioning and wondering ‘why me?’ ‘what did I do wrong?,’ but remember positivity goes a long way. Maintain communication with your cancer care team, no question is a ‘silly one.’
Organisations such as Maggie’s and Ovacome have been a huge support to me both during and after my cancer treatment. I have also found reiki to be very important to my treatment and recovery, and really helped me from a holistic perspective.
How are you feeling now?
I am almost one and half years since my diagnosis and feel that I am getting back to my ‘normal self.’ Physically I am regaining my strength, walking my dog, going on holidays, outings with friends – all things my brilliant oncologist is pleased to hear. Some days I do feel tired, but I know this is related to my maintenance therapy. I am so glad to be alive and back to enjoying things I really love. I and my family are so grateful for the brilliant care I have received.