A West Moreton Health Clinical Nurse has performed the ultimate about turn – rebounding from a shock cancer diagnosis to educate and raise awareness of breast cancer among her huge social media following.

Lindy Webster was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in 2021 after a routine mammogram at BreastScreen Queensland, Ipswich Service picked up an abnormality. 

Despite the physical and mental challenges of her new diagnoses, Mrs Webster, a mother of four, decided to share her health story and build breast cancer awareness through her TikTok channel.

“I had turned 45 and thought I would do a full health check coming into the new year and a routine mammogram was part of that check,” Mrs Webster said 

Mrs Webster documented her health journey, from her diagnosis and surgery, radiation and chemo treatment, hair loss, follow up appointments and ongoing tablet medication.

“I hope my videos help educate anyone that is going through treatment as, even for me – a nurse – I had no idea what I was about to go through, and it helped me process it too.”  

Mrs Webster was treated at Ipswich Hospital where staff were not only supportive of her filming her journey, they even joined in on some of the videos.

“I posted videos of my journey for people to see the raw and real side of cancer treatment, and to raise awareness about how important individual breast checks are, regardless of the size of your breasts, how lumpy they are, your age and family history.”

Mrs Webster said that staff in surgery and oncology understood the emotional pain she was going through – not just her physical pain – making her journey and path to recovery one that is full of great memories rather than sadness.

“Others may consider things such as listening with open ears, sharing a joke, remembering your name, answering questions and easing any anxiousness felt as minor, but to a cancer patient these aren’t minor, they are vital to your processing and recovery,” Mrs Webster said.

Mrs Webster says dancing got her through the toughest period of her life and the support of the online community, as well as her family, ensured she never felt alone.

Cancer-free, Lindy has returned to work as a Clinical Nurse at West Moreton Health, and continues her online breast cancer education campaign.

Mrs Webster’s advice to other women this International Women’s Day is to get to know your breasts. She says:

• don’t be embarrassed to have a mammogram, it could save your life
• learn what your breasts normally look and feel like. There is no right or wrong way to do this. It’s important that any breast changes are investigated by your doctor as soon as possible
• book your BreastScreen appointment from age 40.

Lindy has 33,000 followers on TikTok and her videos have received over 762,000 likes.

West Moreton Health Chief Executive Dr Kerrie Freeman urged all women to prioritise their physical and mental health this International Women’s Day.

“Encourage your mother, sister, daughter, female friends and colleagues to listen to their bodies and put their health first,” Dr Freeman said.

Dr Freeman said women formed the majority of the West Moreton Health workforce and made a significant contribution to the lives of so many in the West Moreton region and beyond through service, research and innovation.

“We are supportive of our female colleagues in their professional and personal triumphs, and have many avenues to support them through the tough times,” Dr Freeman said.

“Here’s to strong women: may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.”

 

About BreastScreen Queensland, Ipswich Service

Located at Ipswich Health Plaza, Bell Street Ipswich. Mobile screening services are also provided throughout the West Moreton Community and located at Toogoolawah and Boonah this coming week.

A breast screen is recommended for women aged 50-74 every two years. Women aged 40-49 and 74+ are also eligible.

Saturday and out of hours appointments are available. To book call 13 20 50 or visit breastscreen.qld.gov.au