When I was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, my surgeon told me about a diagnostic test that could provide more information about my tumour. I chose to have surgery and take this recommended test on the advice of my surgeon. The genomic test was able to analyse the activity of 21 genes that might influence how likely the tumour was to grow and respond to treatment.

As a trained biologist, I was able to discuss my illness with my surgeon at length, and he explained all the risks and benefits of chemotherapy. My surgeon also spoke with the hospital team in charge of my radiotherapy and everyone agreed to avoid chemotherapy and adapt my treatment only to radiotherapy and hormone therapy.

Nevertheless, the radiotherapy treatment was tiring and I had to significantly cut down on my workload. I’m grateful that I was able to continue working part time because it helped my overall wellbeing.

Like so many women who have experienced such an ordeal, life really changes after that. I appreciate everything much more than before. I am very happy that I did not have to take on the extra burden of chemotherapy, which I believe would have made my life even more difficult.

Before I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I had never heard of this diagnostic test. In addition to the savings in terms of treatment, I am convinced that this test gives women quality of life when they need it the most. I recommend this test to everybody who is able to have it!