When you get that initial Breast cancer diagnosis, everyone should have a Sue. Everyone is assigned a Breast Care Nurse, and I was lucky enough to be assigned hers. Right from the start, Sue was supportive and reassuring, informing me of the facts specific to me. I at once felt relieved, and Sue is so down to earth that it made it all seem, dare I say, normal.

I know that sounds like an unusual comment, but when you first come to the department, you feel worried, scared, and alone. I am a very strong person, but this is different; you are not in control. Sue was able to simplify facts when I was confused and always answered any questions after each consultation. Sometimes, when you go home, you wonder if you understood everything, and all it took was a call to the Breast Care Nurses, whom Sue picked up and called me to answer any questions and put me right.

Nothing was too much trouble. Her knowledge never failed to impress me. On the day of my mastectomy, Sue came to the ward to see me beforehand. I know it was the other end of the hospital, but seeing her familiar face was such a help. She once again gave me faith, support, and encouragement. Sue has the ability to gauge what her patient needs. She picked up that I do not like too much fuss, giving me the straight facts that I wanted.

She clearly observed my personality, and it was lovely to hear her feed this back to me more than once - a gift in itself which showed me her caring and perceptive qualities. "A busy and positive lady" - spot on, Sue. I really will never forget her. I do feel she has become like a friend whilst remaining professional at all times. I was lucky to have her, and so is the NHS!