Lincolnshire Mum Recounts Mental Health Struggles Following Diagnosis of Breast Cancer in Pregnancy
A Grantham mum has bravely shared her mental health struggles upon being diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant. Natalie Leatherland was diagnosed at just six weeks pregnant with her son, Theodore in September 2021. The 35-year-old mother describes her difficult journey through mastectomy and chemotherapy treatments, concurrent with her pregnancy.
Challenging Cancer Treatment Journey Begins Early in Pregnancy
Leatherland's cancer treatment journey began when she was just nine weeks pregnant, having a mastectomy and lymph node removal. Starting chemotherapy at 16 weeks pregnant, she regularly had scans to monitor the health of her unborn baby.
The situation became grueling as she balanced the challenges of being a new mum alongside cancer treatment. Leatherland confessed this struggle led her straight into depression and anxiety.
"Putting myself in that chemo chair week after week, for such a long time, it was a scary place to be. I found myself becoming increasingly anxious as the chemo wore me down mentally and physically. As I progressed further in my pregnancy, it got even harder."
Natalie Draws Strength from Newborn Son and Specialist Support
The struggle culminated in the fateful moment of Theodore’s birth. Her treatment was paused, only to resume four weeks after she became a new mother.
Drawn to despair, Leatherland states that her mental health took the hardest hit after Theodore's birth.
"Straight after surgery they checked the baby was okay and he was. His heartbeat was really strong and I knew he was a fighter and that we’d get through this." Natalie added, "After Theodore was born, that’s when my mental health hit its biggest wall."
However, she credits clinical psychologist Jennifer Carty from Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust for her tremendous support during this period. Carty worked closely with Natalie to develop tailored coping strategies.
"Jen was there for me. She was the anchor in the storm. I always say more people need a Jen in their lives."
Positive Development as Natalie Upholds an Optimistic Outlook
Leatherland is now close to finishing her treatment. She asserts she's content and is learning the ropes of being a new mum.
"I can honestly say I have never been happier. I’m finding my feet with being a mum and starting to live again."
Officials Voice Concern over Mental Health Support for Cancer Patients in Lincolnshire
Ruth Willis, Macmillan partnership manager, points out that cancer diagnosis can induce psychological needs besides physical treatment. She raises concerns about the minuscule psychological support operating in Lincolnshire, resulting in long waiting times.
Chris Higgins from Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust highlighted the necessity to provide tailored services for the mental health and wellbeing of patients, their family members, and caretakers.
"We recognise that people’s mental health and wellbeing can be significantly impacted by having a cancer diagnosis and so our aim is to ensure individuals living with cancer, as well as their families and carers, receive the help they need to maximise their quality of life."
Macmillan Support Line provides information, support, and someone to talk to for those living with cancer in Lincolnshire. Those in need can contact them at 0808 808 00 00 or visit macmillan.org.uk for more information.