Mr Paul Thiruchelvam 2023-02-24 Person 5 5 0

Mr Paul Thiruchelvam was the consultant and surgeon who removed a cancerous lump from my left breast. From the actual diagnosis to surgery, I only had to wait two and a half weeks. In this time, I saw Paul on four occasions - the last occasion being on the day of surgery itself. In the lead up to surgery, he carefully discussed where the cancer was and the options regarding how to remove the lump. In the end we discussed a 'flap'. I am only a small breasted woman (34b) and it seemed the most obvious choice to have the incision along the curve of the breast (ie where the breast meets the rest of the torso) - and then incising downwards to create a flap. That flap allows the lump to be removed and some fat from under the breast to be pulled up to retain the original shape of the breast. In the days after the operation, I was surprised by the lack of pain I felt and was extremely happy with the breast itself. It looked prefect. I met Paul again two weeks after surgery. Again, he was kind but practical in giving back the results - answering questions I had carefully and giving me clear next steps. At every stage of the process, I was treated with the utmost care and consideration. Orla, the senior nurse who was with Paul in each meeting, was also the most sensitive and caring practitioner. Together, they ensured I did not feel unduly scared or nervous. In fact, the whole process was incredibly reassuring. My journey has not yet ended as I am waiting for one more result before my treatment plan is decided but I thank both Paul and Orla very much for making what was a daunting experience much easier to deal with.