A mother has received a terminal breast cancer diagnosis after being denied screenings for years because she was deemed too young, only to later discover a lump.
Chantelle Van Der Watt had been proactive in requesting screenings upon relocating from South Africa to the UK in 2020, having undergone annual mammograms previously due to her family’s cancer history. However, at 34 years old, she did not meet the age criteria for the NHS breast screening program, which typically starts at age 50.
Despite pleading with healthcare providers and a breast clinic at Milton Keynes University Hospital, Chantelle was informed that screenings could commence at age 40. Unfortunately, before reaching that age, she noticed a lump in her right breast at 39.
Despite her family history of breast cancer and finding a pea-sized lump in January 2025, doctors dismissed her concerns, attributing her symptoms to her youth. By February 2025, Chantelle received a breast cancer diagnosis, which had already metastasized to her bones, giving her a grim prognosis of only five years.
Struggling with the devastating news, the stay-at-home mother initiated a fundraiser to secure a permanent residence for her family, aiming to transition from rental properties to a stable home. Expressing her anguish, Chantelle lamented, “I turned 39 and two months later I was diagnosed with breast cancer.”
Now battling the disease with medication, Chantelle’s fundraiser seeks support for her family’s future. Those interested in contributing can access the fundraiser via the link provided.
Reflecting on her journey, Chantelle highlighted the disparity in screening protocols between South Africa and the UK, emphasizing her family’s cancer burden and the delayed diagnosis due to age restrictions. Despite the challenges, she remains determined to provide a stable home for her loved ones.
Milton Keynes University Hospital expressed sympathy for Chantelle’s situation and affirmed their commitment to providing her with comprehensive care. They clarified that screening eligibility is nationally regulated and not within the hospital’s control, emphasizing the importance of prompt investigations for patients with clinical concerns.
Efforts to obtain comments from the Department of Health and Social Care were made, highlighting the NHS’s screening guidelines for women aged 50-53 and the rationale behind the targeted age group based on cancer incidence rates.
As the community rallies around Chantelle during her battle, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of timely screenings and proactive healthcare measures in combating cancer.