‘It is kindness you remember’: Patient reflects on breast cancer journey

"Long after the wounds healed and the fear faded, that is what remained with me most strongly. Not the scans, the stitches or the scars, but the extraordinary humanity of the people who carried me through."

Diagnosed with breast cancer following a routine mammogram in September 2025, Amanda Williamson underwent surgery and recovery under the care of teams across Oxford University Hospitals (OUH). Looking back on her experience, she said it was not the scans, stitches or scars she remembered most, but the kindness of the people who cared for her.

"I don't remember the exact words that confirmed what I dreaded, but I do remember the kindness of the nurses – their closeness and warmth,” the 62-year-old from Deddington said.

After learning she would need a mastectomy, Amanda met Consultant Plastic Surgeon Peter Kalu and the wider surgical team to discuss DIEP flap reconstruction surgery.

"Mr Kalu's quiet confidence was calming. Learning that DIEP flap surgery using my own tissue was major and complicated, but 'business as usual' for them, reassured me enormously."

Following surgery at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Amanda spent several days recovering on the specialist surgery unit.

"The care in that unit was astonishing. Nurses folded sheets, helped me wash, charged my iPad, fetched fans when I was hot – all with compassion and humour.

"It felt like being held by an army of kindness. After four days, I went home with a bag full of medication and a head full of gratitude.

"The breast reconstruction nurses were always there to calm my nerves."

Amanda said her recovery took on added significance when her mother reached the final stages of her own cancer journey.

"My greatest fear when I faced surgery was not being able to reach her in time. But thanks to the care and speed of the team, I could be there at the end – to spend a precious week with her, holding her hand and helping her slip away with love and gratitude. I will forever be indebted to those who made that possible.

"When you are frightened, vulnerable and reduced to the basics of survival, it is not grand gestures you remember. It is kindness. Someone making you feel seen, rather than processed."

Amanda shared her story with the OUH Trust Board in May, alongside Peter Kalu and members of the breast reconstruction nursing team, highlighting the importance of breast screening and compassionate care throughout a patient's treatment and recovery.

She said: "I was someone who never relished a mammogram. As someone who could barely say chicken breast without blushing, I found the whole thing vaguely embarrassing. But I never missed an appointment – and my early diagnosis more than justified that commitment.

"We are extremely lucky to have the opportunity to be regularly checked and monitored, and I would urge everyone to make sure they find that few minutes in their day to get along and get tested."

Peter Kalu, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at OUH, said: "Being diagnosed with breast cancer is something no woman ever wants to face. Understanding the treatment and reconstruction options early can make an enormous difference.

"I'm incredibly grateful to our breast reconstruction nurses, whose support helps guide patients through a daunting time. It has been our privilege to help Amanda move forward with confidence."

Felicity Taylor-Drewe, Chief Operating Officer at OUH, said: "Amanda's experience is a powerful reminder of the difference that compassionate, person-centred care can make, and we are grateful to her for sharing her story with us so openly and honestly.

"I would also like to thank the whole team across all disciplines who supported Amanda throughout her diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Amanda’s story highlights the impact that kindness, expertise and teamwork can have on patients and their families.

"We know how important it is that every patient feels supported throughout their journey, and we remain committed to listening, learning and continually improving the care and experience we provide."