Thank you, NHS - my Boob Story
I know I’m a day late to the party with International Nurses’
Day, and I have spent the last few hours going back and forth about whether to post
this, but here goes…
About three weeks ago I found a lump in my left breast (I
was sleeping in a den on my son’s floor, but that’s another story). Having
recently stopped breastfeeding, I assumed it was something to do with that, but
after about ten days it was still there. I reluctantly phoned my doctor’s
surgery, and was instantly referred to the breast clinic at St James Hospital,
Leeds. Within 3 hours an appointment had been made for me, to take place the
next week.
After a tense week waiting, and fiddling with the lump
incessantly, it was my appointment day. I set an alarm (strange in itself at
the moment), remembered to shave my armpits and put on a bra, and set off,
marvelling at the lack of commuter traffic. Not withstanding a short moment
where I forgot how to reverse park, it was a great journey and a pleasant
surprise to have car parking charges waived.
The breast clinic itself was really quite busy, and it was
really strange to see all patients and staff wearing masks, but the whole thing
was managed absolutely marvellously. It was a really smooth process. I saw a doctor
first for an assessment, then after a short wait had a scan. Everyone I saw had
a smile. Thankfully I was given the all-clear and was able to go home. The
whole process took about an hour and a half.
The whole of Jimmy’s (well the bits I saw anyway) was calm,
collected and seemed in control of the whole show. I don’t mind admitting I was
pretty terrified beforehand, going into hospital at the moment was not top of
my wish list, but I hope it doesn’t seem too trite to say I felt so safe in the
hands of the professionals.
So why am I writing this?
1) Check your boobs. If you find anything, get it
checked out. It’s simple and not scary. And there were men there too.
2) Thank feck for the NHS. I’m feel so lucky to
have access to this brilliant system, now and in usual times
Thanks for taking the time to read this, I’m not usually so personal, but don’t we keep in touch? Drop me your email and join my community of authentic leaders.