In June 2016 after a routine mammogram I was diagnosed with breast cancer in my left breast. I was then introduced to Steven Thrush, identified as one of the best consultants for breast cancer care in the country by his peers. Mr Thrush went through the whole procedure so attentively with me that I instantly felt at ease. He explained that a mastectomy would be necessary and chemotherapy as a follow up. This sort of news is of course a great deal to take in, but the care and attention I received from the entire team at Spire South Bank Hospital has been wonderful.
The Breast Care Nurse, Claire McCormick, has been totally supportive and was always at hand if I needed her. The Oncology team were not only professional but I felt they became friends too whilst I received treatment at South Bank.
I chose not to have an instant reconstruction because I wanted to get through all the chemotherapy and follow up Herceptin and then see how I felt. In January this year (2018) I underwent a Diep Flap reconstruction procedure at Coventry University Hospital, performed by another excellent Spire surgeon, Miss Joanna Skillman. Miss Skillman was also voted as one of the best breast reconstruction consultants in the UK by the same peer group. Again the whole procedure was thoroughly explained to me and I could not be happier with the end result.
Thanks to all the clinical and support teams at South Bank for helping me through what could otherwise have been a very scary period in my life. At no time did I feel worried or alone.
I am now back to full strength and I can put the last two years behind me.
Many thanks to all concerned throughout my treatment.
Susan
