NHS Trust Apologizes
A mother of two, Sharni Marks, waited 18 months for surgery to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer, only to be diagnosed with the disease. The NHS trust has apologized to Sharni, admitting that it was likely her cancer developed during the wait for the operation.
Long Wait and Shocking Diagnosis
Sharni had the BRCA2 gene, known to increase cancer risk if faulty, and was advised to undergo a double mastectomy for prevention. However, despite being on the waiting list since August 2022, she wasn't scheduled for surgery until March 2024. After the procedure, a routine assessment revealed a mass in her breast tissue, leading to a grade-three breast cancer diagnosis.
Concerns and Apologies
Sharni's case highlights concerns about delays in surgical procedures. The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust expressed its apologies for the harm caused by the delay and launched an investigation to prevent such incidents in the future.
Legal Action and Support
Sharni has sought legal advice to investigate her care and access necessary treatment. Her lawyer emphasized the impact of care delays on patients and their families, stressing the need for timely and efficient healthcare services.
The hospital trust was contacted for comment.
