Luton cancer survivor celebrates 10-year anniversary by taking ‘patient voice’ to Westminster

Ten years ago Denise Coates, of Luton, was facing one of the most uncertain moments of her life when she was told: “There is an 80 per cent chance you have breast cancer.”

On February 4, 2016, World Cancer Day, Denise underwent an operation to remove cancer from her left breast.

Two further operations followed, along with 21 days of radiotherapy and years of hormone treatment. But Denise’s experience didn’t end with treatment. It became the beginning of a commitment to talk openly about cancer, encourage earlier detection and help others.

Now as Denise, a business development executive, marks her 10-year survivor milestone, her message is continuing to reach beyond the town.

She has been invited to an event at the House of Commons where breast cancer and the experiences of women affected by the disease will be discussed.

For Denise, the invitation is meaningful because it represents an opportunity for the patient voice to be part of conversations taking place at a national level.

“I never imagined when I was diagnosed in 2015 that ten years later I would be talking about my experience in so many different settings and now being invited to Westminster,” she said.

“My experience has given me a voice, and I want to use that voice positively. I want to share what I’ve learned, encourage people to take their health seriously and remind people that nobody should feel they have to face cancer alone.”

One of the messages Denise is particularly passionate about is the importance of breast screening in the Luton community.

“Breast screening is so important. I know from my own experience how easy it can be to put an appointment off because life is busy. For others, there can also be cultural barriers or a lack of appropriate health information. But we should try and make our health a priority.”

Denise also stresses that screening is not the only way breast cancer can be detected.

“Know your own body. If you notice something that isn’t normal for you, don’t wait for your next screening appointment. Speak to your GP.”

The NHS Breast Screening Programme currently invites those eligible for screening every three years from age 50 until their 71st birthday. Women aged 71 and over can continue to have screening every three years if they request an appointment from their local breast screening service.

“Don’t put it off. Screening matters. Early detection matters. And if something doesn’t feel right, get it checked. Spot It Early.”

Reaching ten years has given Denise plenty of reasons to celebrate, but she’s also conscious many people are currently living through their own cancer journey.

“My happiness at reaching ten years doesn’t take away the thoughts I have for those going through treatment, waiting for results or dealing with the uncertainty that cancer can bring.”

“If telling my story encourages someone to attend screening, check something they are worried about or ask for help, then sharing it is worthwhile.”

Denise has written a book about her own breast cancer journey and been presented with a glass plaque in recognition of her work as a media volunteer for Cancer Research UK.