Janet Harrison came in to give her account of breast cancer, which was diagnosed in 2011. She discusses the diagnosis, surgery with mastectomy and chemotherapy (including side effects). Janet mentions the effect of a cancer diagnosis on her mental wellbeing. She also discusses returning to work, and the adaptations she undertook throughout her recovery. Janet talks about the importance of the support she received from group meetings. Janet mentions satisfaction with the abdominal flap for breast reconstruction (TRAM flap) and with aftercare.
Janet gives excellent insight into emotional complications. She talks about feeling angry, feeling lost in the system, feeling isolated after initial treatment. Janet mentions benefits of psycho-oncology team (psychosocial care), voluntary services at Coping with Cancer (Helen Webb House) and also contacting Samaritans when desperate. She talks about return to work issues and work related stress and pros and cons of antidepressants and peer support (groups). Janet says it is ok to take it easy and do pleasurable things when needed. [20mins]
Thank Janet!
0:47 - Introduction
5:49 - Chapter 1
21:53 - Chapter 2
33:26 - Chapter 3
46:45 - Chapter 4
1:01:39 - Chapter 5
1:08:31- Ending credits
Story by: Janet Harrison
Diagnosis: Breast Cancer
Interviewer: Alex J Mitchell
Music: Emma O'Brien
Resolution: 1080p
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