2. Bladder Cancer
3. Interviews

Ann's interview

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How did all start?

2001 diagnosed with urine infections for 18 months when infact I had bladder cancer

Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?

yes it took almost 2 years before they found a tumor

For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?

surgery to remove tumors, I had 8 reoccurrances over 14 years

What has been the most useful thing for you so far?

I stopped drinking out of cans

What have been your biggest difficulties?

I have chemical cystitis from mitomycin and my last surgery was a nightmare. I hit menopause at the age of 40

How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?

dont have a social life much as cant drink alot and need to be close to a toilet.

What things have you stopped doing?

any strenuous activities

What do you think about the future?

future looks good, have been clear 7 years, still have my bladder

So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?

last 7 years, travelled overseas

What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?

I soldier on and do as much as i can

If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?

challenging

Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?

keep on fighting, don't dwell on sickness, you can beat this

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