'I was diagnosed in June 2003 with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma after the most stressful year in 2002. I was treated with steroids only at this time as I had no symptoms apart from a swelling under my arm and over the left side of my chest. I was a little concerned about having steroids as, being a big lady anyway, I didn't want to get any larger. Everything went well, and I had regular check-ups with the consultant who was pleased with my reaction to the steroids.

'In May 2005 I thought I was having a heart attack, as I had pain down my left arm and in the left side of my chest. I was at my sister's at the time, so I couldn't get to see my doctor. Luckily, I had an appointment with my consultant a couple of days later. How I managed to get through those 2 days I don't know! The CT scan confirmed that the tumour was getting bigger.

'Chemotherapy was suggested and accepted, after much deliberation and crying. I had four cycles - and all the tablets that go with it (I now think taking the tablets was worse than the chemo!). While I sailed through the first cycle, the sickness started after the second, and I couldn't get this under control. I lost my hair 3 weeks after having the first cycle. This was not as traumatic as I'd imagined: it was just like looking at my brother in the mirror! When my white blood cells were low I had to have two injections to stimulate the growth of new cells.

'Chemotherapy has done its job for now. The tumour has shrunk immensely, so much so that I didn't have to have all the six cycles that were originally suggested. I am now back at work and it's like I've never been away!