The NHS is still open. Don’t delay getting help if you need it.

Going to the doctor will help you get better sooner and could save your life.

According to health.org.uk there is growing evidence that people are using health services less since the start of the pandemic. 

There have been big drops in A&E attendances, fewer cancer referrals and an increase in cancellations of planned treatment for people with long term conditions. 

The overall number of GP appointments dropped sharply from April 2020 compared with the previous year, but has since recovered. 

As the poster above shows, the NHS want you to know that they are still open and if you are ill, please phone your GP and get checked out.  

NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do. It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk.

Going to the doctor will help you get better sooner and could save your life.

I’d like to thank Jenna Haskins, one of our lovely colleagues for sharing her story and I’m sure she’d agree that by sharing she hopes to help others. 

https://www.itv.com/lorraine/articles/download-the-change-and-check-sticker

In January 2019 Jenna found a large lump on her left breast.  After a referral from her GP, she had an ultrasound 2 weeks later and biopsy and on 21st Feb she was diagnosed with the early stages of breast cancer. After more scans and biopsies she had a mastectomy and full lymph node removal on 1st April and was told that unfortunately her cancer had spread to her spine. 

Following 5 months of chemotherapy and 6 weeks of radiotherapy and treatment to her spine, her scans are now stable so far. Today she continues to have targeted treatment every 3 weeks and scans every 3 months.

Jenna, we all hope that everything continues to stay stable.

Thank you again for bravely speaking up. 

If you’re not sure how to check your breasts, take a look at this video from Coppafeel Charity. https://coppafeel.org/your-boobs/boob-check-101/

Stay safe and well everyone and if you need help for your physical or mental health, please, please seek it.

The useful resources section of this website can signpost you to sources of help and support.