Anjali Raja has kindly shared her story.

In August 2022 I got the devastating news that I had breast cancer. Only a few days before, I had found out my mum had leukaemia. Our family was thrown into an instant state of turmoil overnight. Mum and I went had chemotherapy at the same time.

Mum got really ill with sepsis and passed away on Valentine's Day 2023. I went on to continue my treatment. It all felt like a really bad dream that I just couldn't wake up from.

From the moment I walked in to my last consultation, I was treated with such kindness.

After a break from chemotherapy I went on to have radiotherapy at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre. From the moment I walked in to my last consultation, I was treated with such kindness. I actually began to look forward to my daily visits as I drove along the country road enjoying the green trees swaying in front of me. The staff were so patient and reassuring no matter how busy they were.

My dad had been through so much losing his wife and seeing his daughter with cancer too. He would join me and wait in the Lynda Jackson Centre, where the wonderful staff and volunteers would chat to him with a cup of coffee. He had a space where he could open up, shed a tear and come out feeling supported.

I decided that cancer was not going to be the end of my story. I went on to become a volunteer for Breast Cancer Now, speaking at events to raise awareness of breast cancer. I am currently working with the charity on ethnic minority cancer awareness month and I have taken part in research and written articles.

The year after mum died, a friend and I climbed Mount Snowdon. This was a massive challenge as I was fatigued and so unfit. Reaching the summit in the torrential rain felt like quite an achievement.

I’ve always been a busy person but since my brush with cancer I’ve learned to slow down and savour every day. It really gave me a sense of perspective and what is important in life. We take so much for granted without appreciating it.

My new motto is a day without joy is a day wasted!

What I would say to anyone facing cancer treatment now is take each day as it comes, be honest about how you feel, look at the resources around you and accept any support offered. Find your tribe, and do what makes you happy.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff and volunteers at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre for making my experience of a really tough journey, very smooth. You cannot imagine what a difference it makes. The kindness in words, the body language and the patience. In sometimes tough circumstances you guys work so hard with so much compassion. Thank you NHS.

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