I am 72 years of age, and I reside in Randparkridge.

Cancer touched me at the age of 61when l was diagnosed with Cancer of the Uterus (quite a common cancer) l had a total Hysterectomy and was relieved to hear the cancer was contained within the area and totally removed.

Fortunately, l didn’t require any further treatment.  However, approx 8/9 months later l suffered strange / severe underarm pains. I returned to the same Gynaecologist. I explained my symptoms and was told she had “never heard of it” referring to these pains.

Next day l paid a visit to my local doctor who after listening to my symptoms advised a mammogram (the previous one l had was 4 years earlier.(neglectful on my part ) This mammogram didn’t look good and l was fortunate a doctor was present to do needle biopsy. The days waiting for result are just the worse as we all know.  Wonderful help always seems to come my way. l was helped so much by a work college/friend who insisted taking me to doctor appointments taking notes, etc…

I was directed by another friend (a breast cancer survivor herself) to Dr Carol Ann Benn, in my opinion possibly the best Breast Cancer Specialist in South Africa. She asked to see my previous (4 year earlier) Mammogram only to tell me the cancer showed then.  I remember saying well at least it must be a slow type of Tumour as l had no lump that l was aware of.  A procedure followed normally recommended by Dr Benn to determine if the cancer cells have travelled into any lymph nodes.  My best news ever, no it hadn’t spread.  A week later l had a lumpectomy. Followed by 31 sessions pf Radiation (my biggest relief, l was not a patient requiring Chemo.)  My heart goes out to the Ladies/ Guys who do.

I then took Tamoxifen for years. I was refereed to Wings of Hope, it was thanks to my friend, who was already on the committee, that I was fortunate enough to be introduced to this great support group

In the years that have followed I have learnt so much about breast cancer, and that there are so many different types

SO, it’s definitely “not a one type of treatment fit all” If there are any ladies or men that l can help or assist, I’d really like to help.  REMEMBER EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES.