Woman Diagnosed with Breast Cancer for Second Time After Husband Discovers Lump
Avter Dhadwal, who overcame the disease in her 20s, found a lump in her breast during an intimate moment, leading to an early diagnosis and mastectomy.
A woman has shared her story of being diagnosed with breast cancer for a second time, emphasizing the importance of regular self-checks after her husband discovered a lump during a casual cuddle.
Avter Dhadwal, 58, was first diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 22 in 1991, shortly after the birth of her second child. She successfully battled the disease through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, eventually being declared cancer-free five years later.
In 2024, over three decades after her initial diagnosis, Dhadwal's husband, Tom Flood, felt a small, hard lump in her right breast. The discovery prompted her to seek medical attention.
A mammogram and ultrasound revealed grade one invasive ductal carcinoma, an early-stage cancer. Unlike her first experience, which involved a lumpectomy, Dhadwal was advised to undergo a single mastectomy, the complete removal of her right breast.
Dhadwal is now sharing her experience to raise awareness and encourage others, including men, to check their breasts and chests regularly. She highlighted that her husband's chance discovery allowed for early detection.
"The first time I was diagnosed I had just given birth and initially the lump was thought to be a blocked milk duct," Dhadwal said. "I had my lumpectomy and my treatment and five years on there was no recurrence, so life went on."
Following the second diagnosis, Dhadwal experienced shock, particularly when a mastectomy was recommended. "It took me a while to look at myself in the mirror after, and I don’t look like I used to, but going through this definitely toughens you up," she stated.
While her first battle with cancer was kept private within the family, Dhadwal found more support from family, friends, and charities during her second experience. "Once upon a time, it was ‘You’re Indian, we don’t talk about that,’" she recalled. "But my family talk about it with me now, there’s been a mindset shift."
After her mastectomy in June 2024, which included a reconstruction using skin from her back, Dhadwal did not require further chemotherapy or radiotherapy. She has since had clear scans. Dhadwal encourages everyone to get checked for any lumps or changes, emphasizing that the process takes only seconds. She is currently supporting the Asda Tickled Pink partnership with Breast Cancer Now and CoppaFeel! to promote chest health awareness.