I am an information scientist/librarian and have worked mainly in the medical, scientific and technical fields. For many years I was the librarian for the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain and latterly an information scientist for a consultancy working in the paper, printing and packaging industries. I am currently working freelance. 
 

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002. My tests showed grade 3 infiltrating ductal carcinoma in 3 areas. The tumours were ER+ and HER2+. I was given chemotherapy first, followed by a mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. This was followed by radiotherapy and 5 years of Tamoxifen and Arimidex. Since my treatment I have developed mild lymphoedema which I have under control and capsular contraction in my reconstruction which has resulted in the need for further surgery. This has prompted me to feel strongly about the issues and potential problems we face with the long term effects of cancer treatment.

After doing Peer Support with Breast Cancer Care for a few years I felt I needed to do something different and as I have never felt myself a natural fundraiser research was the place to go. My past professional life working with academics and scientists means I am quite comfortable in the environment.

As well as my work with ICPV I continue to work with Breast Cancer Care.

On a personal level I am a keen reader and enjoy needlework – especially lacemaking and with my husband I enjoy my garden, travelling and walking.

Current memberships

• Breast Cancer Care Service Users’ Research Partnership (SURP) and Research Committee
• South West London Cancer Network Breast Tumour Working Group
• Breast Cancer Campaign Tissue Bank Access Board
• UK Breast Intergroup
• ICPV Trustee

Trial Working Groups

QUEST, HeartSpare, NAEDI Steering Group(KCL), Peer Support Study (Guy’s & St Thomas’ and Breast Cancer Care), No Surgery Trial