Testimonial

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2017 following a routine mammogram. I had felt no lumps or been unwell, so it came as a complete shock.
In April 2018 following multiple hospital appointments, surgery, radiotherapy and medication I found myself at home, alone and wondering how I get back to some sort of normality. It had taken me a long time to accept the new me.

Prior to my illness I was a confident, outgoing NHS Worker of 34 years, a wife, mother and sister. I had become isolated, seeing only a select group of friends and close family. I had been off work for 7 months and the thought of returning to work was not only daunting but quite terrifying. Loss of confidence, self-esteem, a painful right shoulder and arm reducing mobility had made my mood very low. Although my manager had been very supportive and kept in contact throughout, walking back into hospital to my place of work filled me with fear and anxiety.

However, my best friend received a leaflet from her G.P’s practice (as she had breast cancer several years ago) and suggested we both apply for the course.

Although I then went onto meet Michelle at home, on the day of the first In the Pink Programme I felt nervous but excited. But it was fantastic!!! It was great to meet with other ladies with similar histories, be it at different stages of their treatment. We learnt from each other. The course boosted my confidence and self-esteem and GOT ME BACK TO WORK! We built friendships which remain and undertook activities that I never thought I would do!!!

Most important was the Pilates exercises which were successful in returning the mobility to my arm and thus no more pain. My mobility is now excellent. The exercises were obviously difficult at first but with perseverance and performing them regularly as instructed the results were amazing. I now attend a local Pilates session every week.

My facilitator and instructor Michelle was a massive influence- her passion, enthusiasm and fabulous personality makes this programme the success it is. I certainly would not have returned to work so quickly without this support. I feel like I'm back to the mother wife and health professional that I was a year ago, rather than a cancer survivor with side effects of treatment. My mental health is definitely improved, and I am enjoying life again thanks to the ‘In the Pink’ Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Programme.

Annette Riley
 

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