Author Archive

Managing fear of recurrence

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I have written about managing the fear of recurrence here before and of how it is most potent when it is time for my annual follow up with the hospital.  The shock of that day… Continue reading

Gene signature predicts good outcome in breast cancer

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Researchers have identified a genetic signature that can predict an improved clinical outcome in patients with breast cancer, and which could help in the development of new targeted therapies. By analysing the expression… Continue reading

Jade made us think about death

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The death of Jade Goody has been “helpful” in making people think about the end of their own lives, according to a new poll. Nearly half of women, 49pc, and a third of… Continue reading

“Farrah’s Story” has meaningful message

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“Farrah’s Story” is as much about becoming aware of our own mortality as it is seeing a cultural icon fight the disease. If one of the most vibrant celebrities of a generation can… Continue reading

Gwyneth Paltrow – is she right?

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The actress, Gwyneth Paltrow has said on her website that she believes that using shampoo could lead to cancer, after reading research about what she calls the ‘environmental toxins’ allegedly found in these products.… Continue reading

Did Grey’s Anatomy portray cancer accurately?

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“Doctors, patients say ‘Grey’s’ cancer story isn’t accurate”.  So runs the headline in USA Today “The cliffhanger ending on Thursday’s season finale of Grey’s Anatomy left fans worrying that one of the show’s main… Continue reading

Skin-sparing mastectomy

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Following a piece I read on another blog, I thought it might be helpful to tell you of the personal experience of someone who has undergone a skin-sparing mastectomy. Unusually, it is not the woman… Continue reading

Sometimes there are just no words…

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Many people struggle with what to say to a person who has been newly diagnosed with cancer. In fact that person may quickly become a magnet for platitudes! Things such as “sure anyone… Continue reading

Dragon Divas

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I have just been reading about an inspiring group of women, who call themselves the Dragon Divas. They are dedicated to changing the image of breast cancer survivors in their communities by demonstrating… Continue reading

Battling cancer again

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While no one who has survived a few rounds in the fight against cancer, wants to think about going back into the ring again, the reality is, that as cancer patients live longer, the… Continue reading