Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a short message from Dr Groom

“I was diagnosed with a non-hormonal breast cancer back in March this year which had spread to several lymph nodes under my arm.

As cliched as it sounds, I really didn’t think it would happen to me and amongst a huge wave of different emotions, one of the greatest was disbelief. I have had a full course of treatment including chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and ongoing targeted medication. I am extremely lucky to have responded well to my treatment meaning that my cancer has been cured. I am so grateful for the superb care I have received from my wonderful medical team, from diagnosis, during all of my treatment, and through several complications along the way.

As both a doctor and a breast cancer patient, my journey with this illness has profoundly changed my outlook both on a personal and a professional level. Navigating the emotional, physical and mental challenges of cancer firsthand has given me insights that no medical textbook could provide. I have felt the fear, uncertainty and vulnerability that come with a diagnosis and I understand the emotional weight of waiting for results and going through treatment. I recognise that everyone’s journey is unique, but I feel I can now connect more genuinely with other people’s anxieties and concerns having lived through this myself, and I know how important it is for patients to feel seen, heard and supported. 

Cancer has given me a new sense of purpose and I am motivated to get my life back on track. I have invested in my health and wellbeing through my training in Lifestyle Medicine. This has helped my recovery immensely and I am keener than ever to help others with this advice. I am excited about returning to work – hopefully in the near future – and look forward to working alongside our wonderful team at New Hall Hospital. 

Finally, I’d like to thank my colleagues Dr Woodward and Dr Pemsel for their unwavering support for me and my family during this difficult time. They have done an amazing job at The Grosvenor Practice and I am in awe of all their hard work and commitment.”