A YOUNG breast cancer patient from Tenbury Wells has called for more emotional support to be offered to younger people with the disease in Worcestershire, writes Rob George.
Laura Hunter warmly praised her care at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital during her active cancer treatment but hopes more can be done to help young people in her situation.
The 26-year-old’s battle against an aggressive form of breast cancer began in July 2015 when she discovered a lump while lying down.
After a visit to her GP, she was referred to Kidderminster for biopsies and rather than a telephone call, she was asked to return to the hospital for her diagnosis.
Extensive treatment followed at Kidderminster Hospital where she underwent breast surgery and at Birmingham Women’s Hospital for fertility preservation treatment.
A total of 12 cycles of chemotherapy took place at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham and three weeks of radiotherapy was undertaken at the Worcestershire Royal.
Laura faces 10 years and 18 cycles of hormone therapy in a bid to stop the cancer from returning.
“I was fortunate in that I reported my concerns early and was given an early referral and treatment,” said Laura.
“If women or men have concerns or notice a change, I urge them to go to their GP.
“It’s not always a lump; signs of breast cancer can include pain, redness, nipple changes, swelling or change in texture, shape or size.”
Her treatment saw her spend a lot of time at the Worcestershire Royal and Laura told the Observer she couldn’t fault her care.
“I know A&E has had recent bad press re: overspills etc, but I became quite the regular patient throughout treatment and I couldn’t fault the care I received.
“Yes, it was often busy every time I was admitted and on occasion I did have to spend several hours in the corridor, but that didn’t impinge upon the quality of care I received.
“As well as being an outpatient for radiotherapy, I was admitted as an impatient on many occasions.
“The haematology and oncology ward staff in particular were brilliant – especially Jo and Annie who I will always remember – often feeling isolated in my side room, they would make extra effort to talk to me and make me feel less lonely.
“Being stuck in a side room for ten plus days at a time between treatments is always a lonely time.
“But not only that, they helped support my mum which was equally as important to me,” she added.
While Laura has found support online with people her age who have battled cancer she would like to see more local support through local groups.
“I have struggled to find local and regular support and I have often felt isolated at times, living remotely and not having access to anything nearby targeted at younger people.
“Yes, there are groups that support ‘all ages’ but I have found I am usually the youngest.
“It would be nice to see a regular support group for young adults, say 18 to 30 year olds, to be able to share experiences and help support each other.
“Teenage Cancer Trust run relatively regular social meet ups for younger people but these are held in Birmingham,” she added.
