A Wirral breast cancer patient is hoping talking about her experience of radiotherapy treatment on camera will help others.
Julie Moss, 53, from Eastham, was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2024 after a routine mammogram. Julie has taken part in a video by The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre which aims to show patients what to expect from their first treatment.
Following her diagnosis, Julie had a lumpectomy. This was followed by a course of radiotherapy at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre on the Wirral which she completed in June 2024.
When the Radiotherapy Team from Clatterbridge approached Julie to be involved in a video which would explain the process of treatment to other breast cancer patients, she jumped at the chance.
“I was terrified at the prospect of having radiotherapy as I had no idea what it entailed” explains Julie, who is a mum to two grown-up daughters. “Fortunately I have a friend who works for The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre who was able to reassure me but of course, not everyone has that.
“When I heard about the video, I thought it was a fantastic idea. I hope it gives patients reassurance, hearing from people like me who have been through the process on what to expect, who they will meet and how it all works.”
The twelve minute video, which was funded by Clatterbridge Cancer Charity and is available on the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre website, explains the entire process of breast radiotherapy treatment.
The project came about after Consultant Clinical Oncologist Dr Shaveta Mehta came up with the idea of producing a video guide to help patients understand what happens before, during and after radiotherapy for breast cancer.
Dawn Ledsom is Consultant Radiographer in Breast Cancer at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre and was part of the team who commissioned the video. Dawn says; “Radiotherapy isn’t something that most people are familiar with.
“This video is a step by step guide, featuring real patients like Julie, radiographers and consultants who cover all the things you might need to know. We hope it will reassure anyone who has been referred to The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre for breast radiotherapy.”
Radiotherapy after a patient has had surgery for breast cancer helps to reduce the risk of cancer returning in the future. Treatment itself is quick and the patient doesn’t feel or see anything. They are monitored by a specialist team throughout their treatment. After treatment, patients can go home, however they may feel tired and other side effects are possible.
Julie adds: “If taking part in the video helps just one person feel reassured before their treatment, I’ll be happy.
“I also think it’s really important to encourage everyone to attend their medical screenings. A mammogram caught my cancer early making it easier to treat.
“But if anyone has received a diagnosis, I really hope this video makes them feel more positive as you’ll be well looked after by the Clatterbridge team.”
Watch the video on our website by clicking this link: WATCH THE VIDEO
