When Beth Jenkins first noticed a small lump in her right breast in 2018, an initial ultrasound at the time indicated it was likely glandular tissue, and no biopsy was performed. Years later, after giving birth to her daughter Robyn, an accidental toddler kick to her chest while changing a nappy caused the lump to swell significantly. She visited her GP practice in October 2024 seeking answers.
Dismissed Symptoms and the Search for Answers
Two weeks later, she returned to the practice while taking her baby for an appointment and decided to speak to a female GP about her concerns. The GP reviewed her notes and decided to send an urgent referral.
Meet Beth – a two-time breast cancer survivor 💗Beth shared that her second fight was different.“There was a lot more hope, inspiration and support,” she said. “I felt empowered — not just as a patient, but as a person.”Read about her journey: https://t.co/5zuvHddKtj pic.twitter.com/40k76gsgz7
— https://x.com/WellSpan/status/1975549325779607746
Diagnosis and Aggressive Treatment
Referred to a breast clinic, Jenkins received a formal diagnosis of lobular breast cancer. The tumor measured 5cm (2in), and the cancer had already spread to three lymph nodes.
Her medical struggles did not end with surgery. During preventative care, Jenkins suffered severe complications from neutropenic sepsis. Medical staff told her that arriving at the hospital even 24 hours later would have proved fatal.
Systemic Guidance Gaps for Younger Patients
In the UK, routine NHS breast screening is not automatically offered to 40-year-olds, as standard invitations begin at 50. Dr. Lee Campbell from Cancer Research Wales noted that while breast cancer in women under 40 remains uncommon, there were about 100-115 cases of breast cancer in women under 40 each year in Wales.
Practice Response and Community Fundraising in Merthyr Tydfil
To mark two years since her diagnosis, Jenkins created Breast Fest, a charity event to raise money for Merthyr Cancer Aid on 14 November that has raised £6,000 from ticket sales alone.
