In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, taking place each October, Kara Wallis RVN has provided us with this two-part blog series to share with the veterinary nursing community.

To write this second part, Kara reached out to two more RVNs who have received a breast cancer diagnosis, and who have also kindly agreed to share their stories with us.

We’d like to thank Kara, Rachel and Freya for being so open and willing to share their experiences. They each hope to raise awareness of breast cancer, while helping others who may be going through a cancer treatment journey to realise they are not alone.

One of the things I’ve learned through my own journey is just how many women, of all ages, are diagnosed with breast cancer. I decided to reach out and connect with others who had been through similar experiences, and the support and stories I’ve received have been incredible. Two brave women have kindly agreed to share their stories with you.

Rachel’s Journey

“My diagnosis came out of the blue. At 56, I attended my routine mammogram and was called back a week later because “things had changed” from my previous mammogram. I couldn’t feel any lumps, so after reassurance from friends, I assumed it was probably cysts. Further mammography, ultrasound and a biopsy revealed a 2.5cm lump that “didn’t look great”. A few weeks later, I received the diagnosis – a day I’ll never forget.

“The following months were filled with investigations, MRI scans and biopsies, followed by a long wait for surgery. I will always be grateful for the support of the Breast Care Nurses. Their advice that “breast cancer teaches you to be patient” proved very true.

“Recovery after surgery was harder than I expected. I had a chest wall perforator flap, leaving a 7-inch scar that affected everyday tasks. Radiotherapy brought fatigue, while Letrozole has brought hot flushes and other side effects.

“Strength training twice a week has been a huge help. Exercising alongside other breast cancer patients has given me motivation and a real sense of community.

“My advice is simple: attend your screening, be vigilant, look after your health and stay as fit as you can. Most importantly, enjoy your life.”

Freya’s Journey

“I was diagnosed at 36 in 2024. I had always been diligent about checking myself and knew what was normal for me, so I quickly spotted the tiny change that prompted me to see my doctor. I was seen by the breast unit within a couple of weeks, and things moved quickly from there.

“I underwent 13 months of treatment and have been on preventative treatment for 14 months. As a Vet Nurse, my medical knowledge helped me understand wound healing, physio and medication side effects. Apparently, whilst premedicated, I also sassed the anaesthetist about how I would be monitored and what protocols were in place during my 12+ hour GA!

“I very much got my head down and got through it. My chemo nearly killed me twice, and I now know I didn’t fully process the emotional impact at the time. I wanted to minimise how scary it would be for my children, nieces and nephews.

“My practice was amazing. Every staff member supported me, carrying me through it all.

“My advice? Lean on your colleagues. They will love you through it. Make sure you have mental health support for the “after”, and always, always do the physio!”

There are so many brave women out there, and hearing their stories has helped me realise that, no matter where you are on your journey, you are not alone.

More resources and support, including more personal stories, can be found on BVNA’s Chronic Illness Toolkit here; https://bvna.org.uk/project/chronic-illness-and-conditions-among-veterinary-nurses/