After finding a lump in her breast in 2023, 51-year-old Tessa was referred to the Charles Wolfson Rapid Diagnostic Centre in the Oak Cancer Centre. Here, Tessa shares her experience of rapid diagnosis, world-class treatment – and getting the all-clear.
Finding a lump
“I'm not very good at checking my breasts. But it was October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month – and I’d seen a few reminders to check yourself.
“I found a lump, similar to one I found a few years ago, which turned out to be nothing. I went to the doctor, and he referred me immediately to The Royal Marsden for diagnostic tests. You get a two-week turnaround for an appointment when it could be suspected cancer.”
Diagnostic tests at the Oak Cancer Centre
“I was seen in the Oak Cancer Centre – and I had a positive experience right from the beginning. The centre is brand new. It feels so modern and everyone was lovely.
“I needed to have both a mammogram and an ultrasound test at the Charles Wolfson Rapid Diagnostic Centre, where you leave knowing if you've got cancer or not. Unfortunately, I left with the news that it was cancer, but I felt like I was in good hands.
“When you’re told you have cancer, your mind goes into overdrive. Thankfully, my cancer was contained and quite straightforward to deal with. I feel very privileged and lucky that this is the case.
“They told me I’d need to have an MRI. When I went back to my consultant, I had a lot of questions, and the team gave me a lot of information. It was just amazing how quick everything was."
“Everything was handled quickly and positively. Communication on the day and after leaving was super quick and everyone was reassuring. From the diagnostic tests to my consultant and everything in between, I have been hugely fortunate. I never doubted I was in incredible hands.
“The whole facility was really nice. Even when I had to go back into the waiting room after getting such significant news, it was comfortable and spacious. I could sit to one side and have a moment.”
Treatment at The Royal Marsden
“After my MRI scan, my consultant, Rachel O'Connell, confirmed what she thought it was, and said the cancer was contained and low risk. Rachel O'Connell is my angel – incredible on every level. She did everything she could to reassure me. She is professional with a great bedside manner; I felt very fortunate to be under her care.”
Tessa underwent a lumpectomy, partial breast reconstructive surgery and a course of radiotherapy. Less than a year since her diagnosis, Tessa is doing really well, with no evidence of disease.
“Going forwards, I’ll have regular screening and will be monitored at The Royal Marsden for the next five years – they’ve reassured me that if I have any concerns, they are just a phone call away.
“Right now, my physical health is great. I'm pretty much back to normal now. There are a few things I can't do, like giving blood because I've had cancer, but I don't feel like my life has had to change. I feel so fortunate.”
“World-class” experience
“It’s important for people to continue donating to charities like The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity because advancements in cancer care are always needed.
“The Royal Marsden is world-class. I've had nothing but positive experiences there despite going through such stressful news. We are fortunate to have such a great facility at The Royal Marsden.”
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