Sharing your breast cancer experience with the media

So interesting @sandramj. I went through a BreastScreen clinic in Melbourne. One dr for the call back, a different one for the diagnosis appointment. At the end of that meeting I had a very good feeling about this breast surgeon. So I went with him and am so glad I did.

He runs his own business with some other surgeons and their mission statement talks about how they want to offer women a better, swifter, more streamlined and more supportive treatment service than is otherwise available.

I met my breastcare nurse at my very first appointment in my surgeon's office, later in the day of my diagnosis. She gave me my Berlei bra, and visited me the next day in hospital after my first surgery. She sat with me for over an hour, when I was so very very angry.

My breast surgeon texts, emails; it feels contemporary, modern, and I feel well supported.

We have private health insurance, and as you say, sacrifice to make these payments. It's not easy with a household of seven people. I raised financial stress early and my BS immediately suggested ways to assist and work round it. He also charges a bare minimum gap for his surgeries. I asked him about it recently and he said he just didn't have the heart to charge more. I am truly lucky and blessed to have found him.

But it was completely random. I think there is much to what you say. Everyone woman should not have to rely on the kind of luck I had. Every woman should have informed choice. I am full of admiration for you, for your gumption to raise these issues and effect change. Bloody brilliant!