The digital age has brought about many conveniences, from instant communication to the ability to manage our health records online. However, as we've come to rely on technology for these critical aspects of our lives, we must also face the reality that technology is not infallible. This was a lesson learned in the most devastating way by Wioletta Smith, a 41-year-old mother and financial planner from East Molesey in Surrey, whose breast cancer diagnosis was delayed by 10 months due to a missed email.


Wioletta's story is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance when it comes to our health. She attended her yearly examination at Kingston Hospital in south west London in December 2022, after noticing changes in her right breast. The mammogram image was marked as requiring further action (FAR) by the radiologist, who recommended an ultrasound assessment and a possible biopsy. This critical information was emailed to the breast clinic, but due to an error in the agreed process, it was never received. The recommendations for further investigation were not actioned, and Wioletta, not having heard back, assumed all was well.


It wasn't until October 2023, when she reported a lump in her breast to her GP, that the urgency of her situation was recognised. She was referred under the urgent two-week suspected cancer pathway, underwent a biopsy, and was diagnosed with grade three breast cancer. The shock and devastation of this news were compounded by the knowledge that her diagnosis could have and should have come much sooner.


Wioletta's resilience in the face of such a harrowing experience is nothing short of inspiring. She has undergone surgery to remove the lump, as well as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, all the while maintaining her determination to fight for her life and be there for her young son. Her strength is a testament to the human spirit and the love of a mother.

Kingston Hospital Foundation Trust has since issued an apology and has taken steps to redesign their process for radiological alerts distribution and the pathway for patients under surveillance mammogram review. These changes aim to minimise the likelihood of human error and ensure that such a delay in diagnosis does not happen to another patient.

As Wioletta works with medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate her care, she is also focusing on raising awareness about the importance of breast cancer testing. Her message is clear: know the symptoms, participate in screening programmes, and seek medical advice promptly if you have concerns. Early detection and treatment are crucial in the fight against cancer.


Lauren Mannion, Wioletta's lawyer, emphasises the importance of continuing to support individuals like Wioletta so they can access the specialist support and therapies they require. The Trust's pledge to improve patient safety is a step in the right direction, but it is also a reminder that we must not become complacent when it comes to our health.

For our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, Wioletta's story is a poignant reminder to stay proactive about our health. Technology can fail, and systems can falter, but our vigilance should not. Let's take this as an opportunity to remind ourselves and our loved ones to keep up with regular health check-ups and to follow up persistently if something feels amiss.
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Have you or someone you know faced challenges with medical communication or delayed diagnoses? How do you ensure that you stay on top of your health in a world that's increasingly digital? Your stories and insights could be invaluable to someone else in our community.