Mum, 34, given devastating breast cancer diagnosis after spotting unusual symptom
17.05.2022 - 09:01
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
A Bolton cancer survivor has shared her inspirational story after spotting an unusual symptom. Kirsty Naylor, of Westhoughton, has now been chosen as the voice for Cancer Research UK's Race for Lifes.
The 36-year-old mum-of-three became concerned and booked a phone appointment with her GP in September 2020 after noticing her right nipple was inverted. Aged only 34 at the time, she did not think this could have been cancer.
Strict Covid restrictions were in place at the Royal Bolton Hospital, meaning Kirsty had to undergo an ultrasound and mammogram alone. She then received the shock news that she had breast cancer after two tumours were found during the scan.
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Kirsty had to have her right breast removed and says she spent Christmas 2020 in fear for her future. She began chemotherapy treatment in February 2021 but initially reacted badly to this, developing neutropenic sepsis.
She spent long times alone and very weak in hospital, with partner 46-year-old Dale Young rallying to look after their three girls, Ella, 16, Evie, 6, and Eila, 4. Kirsty's mum had to move into the family home as she spent so much time in hospital.
Kirsty finished her chemo around 12 months ago, but her journey did not stop here. She faced radiotherapy in July and is still sometimes left unable to walk due to the chemotherapy.
As well as this, she will need an annual mammogram plus will take the drug tamoxifen for the next decade. Kirsty is also receiving an implant every four weeks to stop an early menopause.
“When they told me I had breast cancer, I didn’t take in the news at first. But when I walked outside my legs turned to jelly. I couldn’t drive home and I had to get someone to