And It Could Be Years
A poem written by my partner John Leach … Janine has got cancer My partner could be dying, it’s only a matter of time, and it could be years. People say it’s not what it was they’ve got it early, … Read More
Writing: Blog: The Big J vs The Big C
Making the breast of a bad situation …
On 4 October 2016, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This blog charts my progress through treatment, and continued enjoyment of life, love and friendship.
Btw, that picture is not me.
Joke of the Day
My breast tumour has been sent to the USA, where tests revealed that it is an aggressive, slimy piece of tissue that attacks women. Donald Trump is considering appointing it to a senior post.
Joke of the Day
I got stuck in the mammogram machine and couldn’t get out. It was a booby trap.
A Communication Cock-up and a Transatlantic Trip
Readers may recall that at my last appointment with the breast surgeon (2 December), I was told that I was being referred to the oncologist to determine what treatment I need to have next. I’d hear from them within two … Read More
Infection Dejection
I guess when you have a 15-inch surgical wound, there is a fair chance that an inch or two of it may become infected. But when it does, it is horrid, painful, smelly, leaves a worse scar and – more worryingly – … Read More
Big Breast Cancer
While identical in its pathology to general breast cancer, Big Breast Cancer has its own peculiar symptoms and foibles. Big breast cancer: Basically, biologically, clinically Bog-standard breast cancer But brings complications Bad bastard cells Build big clumps Burrowed, buried, concealed … Read More
Results and Prospects
Here is the very good news from today’s appointment with the surgeon at Homerton Hospital (pictured): they got it all out – the tumour and all surrounding areas are gone, departed, no more, not pining for the fjords etc.; I … Read More
Bored Now: Post-Op Weeks 2 and 3
OK, so the novelty has worn off now, and sitting round recovering is beginning to, erm, get on my tits. The big long wound is healing very slowly. The other wound, under my armpit, has a stubborn sore patch next … Read More
It’s Not Me, It’s You
Written on the occasion of the Labour Party’s campaign day for the NHS. It isn’t my humour That sees off my tumour Or my banter and mocking derision It isn’t my laugh But the medical staff And their caring, their … Read More
Post-Op Week One
Back home from the hospital on the very (Mon)day that I had the operation, I felt remarkably cheery and pain-free. Obviously the anaesthetic hadn’t worn off fully. The huge support from friends and family also keeps my mood upbeat. I … Read More
Surgery Day Part 2: Letters on my Chest
See those letters on my chest? Here’s what they stand for: R-WLE: Right Wide Local Excision SLNB: SentineL Node Biopsy Yep, it’s two operations in one go. The first means removing the cancerous lump and the area around it; the … Read More
Nukes and Rebukes: Surgery Day Part 1
First stop, the London Independent Hospital (pictured) in Bethnal Green. For the second time in three months (the previous occasion being surgery on my left foot), I am having a medical procedure carried out in a private hospital, paid for by … Read More
Dates at Last
1 November, and it’s Booby Tuesday again. Today, I will get the results of the biopsy on the second lump and the plan for treatment. After a lot of uncertainty, this is what I want. After a fair bit of … Read More
Joke of the Day
I like my breasts like I like my tea. Milky and with no lumps.
Solidarity from Iranian Campaigners
I was very pleased to receive this letter … To: Janine Booth, Marxist trade unionist and poet 20 October 2016 Dear Comrade Janine, We heard with great concern about your breast cancer diagnosis. We hope that your treatment goes well … Read More
Joke of the Day
I’d like a false breast made of mahogany. That would be lovely, wooden tit?
Joke of the Day
All these breast surgery jokes have me in stitches. Oh well, suture self.
Customer Information: Your Treatment Has Been Delayed
I am writing this in an airport. My 50th birthday was on Thursday. Strangely, The Sun and The Mail are not questioning my age. I have had the most excellent of celebrations: a party and book/CD/tour launch the night before; … Read More
Joke of the Day
Six women in the waiting room for mammography. That sounds busy, dozen tit?
Tests on My Breasts
Take this basket into this stall Waist upwards: off with it all On with the gown (No, the other way round) This is what we’re going to do OK with you? Into the room, off with the gown Lift your … Read More