In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are proud to share a powerful story that highlights the personal and emotional impact of breast cancer—not just on those diagnosed, but on their families, friends, and communities. In this feature, Yvonne Shaw from our Pembroke office opens up about her journey following a breast cancer diagnosis last year. She reflects on the challenges she faced during treatment and shares how her experience has inspired her to champion fundraising and awareness efforts to support others navigating similar paths.
Q: Can you share a bit about when and how you were first diagnosed with breast cancer and how you broke the news to those closest to you?
I was diagnosed with breast cancer on February 20, 2024. That morning, I had a check-up with my GP after undergoing tests at the hospital the week before. My appointment was at 10:50 AM, and the test results had just been uploaded to the GP portal ten minutes before I arrived.
When I returned to work, I was in a bit of a daze. It was break time, and Caroline, who knew I had been for tests, asked if I was okay. She was the first person I confided in about my diagnosis. I went back to my desk and slipped her the piece of paper where the GP had written down the details of my diagnosis. I was so overwhelmed that I could barely speak and ended up in tears.
I was extremely worried about how I would break the news to my husband and our two sons. We decided to call my husband to come to the office, and together we shared the news with him. Later that evening, I went home and spoke to my close family and friends about my diagnosis.
Q: What were your initial thoughts and emotions when you received the diagnosis?
It took some time for what was happening to sink in. I felt cross and angry, but I knew I was going to fight it with all I had; I wasn’t going to let it defeat me.
Q: What kind of treatment did you undergo, and what was that experience like?
I underwent six months of chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, from April to September. I typically had treatments on Thursdays and would usually take that day and the following Friday off work. There were a few occasions when I felt unwell and stayed home for about a week; I think this happened two or three times during that period. The nurses in the unit are wonderful, and I can only imagine how challenging it must be to care for individuals who are very ill.
During my treatment, I met a lovely lady who had also been diagnosed with breast cancer around the same time as me. We formed a strong bond and have developed a wonderful friendship, continuing to meet up regularly.
In October, I had surgery to remove my tumour and some lymph nodes at Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli, after which I took two weeks off work before returning.
In late November and early December, I received radiotherapy treatment at Singleton Hospital in Swansea. Unfortunately, I experienced radiotherapy burns under my arm that lasted about six weeks.
As a preventative measure, I completed five additional standalone immunotherapy treatments, which are scheduled to finish in May.
Q: Were there any particularly difficult moments during your treatment that stand out? Especially in terms of managing the physical and emotional toll
Yes, it was our silver wedding anniversary in July 2024, and I had booked a trip to London (before my diagnosis) for a few days away. The main events were to see Kylie in Hyde Park and visit Buckingham Palace. Looking back, I realise I shouldn’t have gone, as I wasn’t well enough.
I remember getting off the tube and having to walk to the other side of the park to reach the concert. I was literally crying as I hurried to get there before the gates closed; I was exhausted. I had lost my voice a day or two before, which didn’t help.
We finally made it, and yes, I did enjoy it, but it wasn’t the same since I didn’t have the energy to dance around, and I found myself singing out loud in my head. I think it broke me, both physically and emotionally.
Q: How did you juggle work responsibilities while going through treatment? What advice would you give to others to best navigate other aspects of life during this time?
Try to do as much or as little as you can each day. I’m quite stubborn, so I aimed to carry on with my routine as normally as possible. My colleagues were exceptional, and their support was amazing.
Q: Having been through your own journey with such courage, what in particular has inspired you to fundraise for Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
I just want to show awareness that it can happen to you and yes, it is frightening but you can get through it. I received a lot of informational booklets from Breast Cancer Now, which can help you understand what is happening, what the treatments mean, and more.
Q: What message do you hope to share with others through your fundraising efforts?
To raise awareness for this very worthy charity.
Q: How has your experience changed your perspective on life, health, or work?
You never know what awaits you around the corner. Try to be happy, be kind to others, and enjoy life.
Q: What does the future look like for you now?
I am currently cancer-free and will undergo preventative treatment for the next three years. My cancer type is triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Unfortunately, this type of breast cancer has a higher risk of recurrence.
If you would like to donate to Breast Cancer Now, please do so by clicking here
