The Flat Friends team keeps growing!

I was introduced to the local branch of The Haven, a breast cancer charity, and the Leeds manager gave me the information about Flat Friends. My immediate reaction was to request a double mastectomy. My surgeon firmly and repeatedly turned me down, with a variety of arguments to convince me it wasn’t a good idea. When he pointed out that the increased risk of complications from a double mastectomy could delay the start of chemotherapy I accepted his advice.

I found being asymmetrical uncomfortable and as soon as I had finished all my other treatment I requested symmetry surgery. I had to undergo a psychological assessment but I realise I was fortunate to have a sympathetic surgeon. The first COVID lockdown delayed the planned surgery but I was fortunate to be fitted in before the second lock down, so completed surgery within 18 months of the start of my cancer journey.

I have had no regrets regarding my decision and appreciate that in many ways I didn’t have to fight too hard to get what I wanted, but I recognise that is not always the case and I am acutely aware that the arguments against going flat posed by the surgeons and breast care nurses are not based on the reality for many patients.

When I heard that FFUK were involved in the current research seeking to change the established guidelines I wanted to get involved, bringing both my experience as a patient and background as a doctor. I was told about a course for people who wish to be patient advocates, covering useful information about cancer research. In order to benefit from this opportunity and to contribute to the work FFUK is already doing it made sense to have a more formal role with the charity and so I was invited to become a trustee with a particular interest in research. I gladly accepted the offer, seeing it as a valuable way to give something back for all the support I have experienced on my patient journey, and, now I have retired from medicine, continue to use my knowledge and skills in some useful way.