Sheila Hancock on breast cancer: transcript

Jenny & Grace:Is there anything, which if it had been handled differently, could have made a positive difference to the way you coped with your illness?
Sheila Hancock:I did meet the occasional, rather brusque doctor or nurse, some of whom thought I had no right to ask difficult questions. This attitude has changed enormously in the medical profession. There are no longer so many patriarchial doctors and CancerBACUP is here to stand up for the rights of patients. Use it girls!

Belleangel2000:My mum recently had breast cancer which resulted in lumpectomies on both her breasts. At the same time my father had an affair and subsequently left her on her arrival home from hospital. Understandably her self-confidence has been badly affected. How can I make her believe that she is still a sexy, desirable woman?
Sheila Hancock:Oh poor you! And how lucky your mother is to have such an understanding daughter.I think she's dealing with two separate problems here. And I think you should encourage her to get fit and well first. If you are implying that scars on her breasts make her less sexy - not so! And any man that thinks so isn't worth bothering with anyway! It really comes back to what I said before. One has to value oneself and not depend on the attitude of others. It sounds as though she's well shot of her husband anyway. Although obviously you and her can't possibly think that at the moment. I do send you and your mother my very best wishes at this horrid time.

Beryl:It is really good news to hear of your involvement with CancerBACUP and I am sure your association with the organisation will bring much greater awareness of cancer issues to the public and will be of great benefit.
Sheila Hancock:How nice of you. A lot of people have helped me in the past. The least I can do is try to repay the help I received. Thanks again for your kind thoughts.