Hello Lynn and thanks for your post

I am sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis and appreciate what a difficult time this must be for you.

It isn't always easy to come to terms with a cancer diagnosis so try and be gentle on yourself and take things one step at a time. There is a section called coping with breast cancer on our website that may be useful for you to take a look at.

Usually patients are referred to their nearest cancer centre for their treatment. Patients at this point don't usually have much say about the hospital or which consultant they are under. If however for whatever reason you don't feel happy with the team you are given you can request for your care to be transferred somewhere else or ask for a second opinion. It is important to bear in mind that this may delay treatment and some hospitals may be unable to accept patients out of area.

There is also information about breast radiotherapy and possible side effects. Common side effects include tiredness and skin changes due to the nature of radiotherapy itself. Any side effects experienced during treatment can be managed by your team if you were to have radiotherapy. Most side effects will ease several weeks after treatment.

I hope you get seen soon so you can find out about the best plan for you moving forward. Do ask the team involved in your care any questions you have as they are in the best position to answer these.

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Wishing you all the very best,

Take care

Naomi