Kristin Watt-Bonar

My diagnosis was a shock but the tears only started to flow when I was given a pamphlet called ‘Mummy’s Lump’, a picture book to help me explain what was happening to my boys who were only two and four. My only thought was I want to live to see my little boys grow up. 

From the beginning I decided to be very matter of fact and open about my cancer. I also found that laughter was my medicine. Can you believe I was asked at a party, “Sorry to be so blunt but how long have you got?” I answered “Well, I think I’ll manage to make it home from the party!” and my friends and I fell about laughing.

I didn’t worry about been bald – it was summer, so it was cooler and the kids painted my head and stuck things to it. Now it’s grown back short and curly, like Elaine Paige circa 1982. I’m finding that harder to deal with!

The dream team of staff at The Haven helped from my head to my toes. Initially I saw the nutritionist and medical herbalist who was just marvellous with her advice and recipes which helped me through six months of chemotherapy.  I still use her recipes now and the boys love them.

My husband and I saw the counsellor to help us both deal with what was happening. It was difficult for him too because he was feeling so helpless and having a wife on steroids is not a pretty sight; though it does mean the housework gets done very quickly!

Chris worked his magic on me with his acupuncture – it helps my body deal with the ravages that have been wrought upon it. I really believe it helped stop the side effects of the chemotherapy for me.

After my chemotherapy I had a double mastectomy with temporary implants so I’m still coming to the Haven for respite, rest and recuperation.  Now I am having some massage which has helped me to reconnect to my body.

Life is getting back on track though. We’ve finally made our dream move to a village in Kent which had been put on hold when I was diagnosed, and despite the Elaine Paige-hair we’re all still laughing."