Woman receives second chance at life after devastating mouth cancer diagnosis

A woman’s entire world changed in an instant

After almost a decade of careful monitoring following the discovery of a white patch on her tongue, Selene Brown was devastated when she was told she had mouth cancer. The diagnosis which came on May 5, 2023 marked the beginning of a journey that would test her strength and have her find courage from within as she took on the fight for her life.

Selene, a successful paraplanner, decided to share her story as November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month. And the survivor is hoping that by telling it, others may recognise the signs or symptoms of the disease early.

Her journey with cancer began long before her diagnosis was given.

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She said: “In 2015, I attended my Dentist for a routine appointment and they noticed a white spot on the left-hand side of my tongue. At the time, I did not really think anything about it. I was referred for further tests and diagnosed with Dysplasia. I was placed on an active surveillance programme at the Ulster Hospital.

“I just knew something was not quite right. After further tests, I was diagnosed with cancer on Good Friday. I will never forget that moment. Your whole world stops, but I tried to stay positive and focus on getting fit for surgery.”

Selene’s Consultant, Mr John Hanratty, talked her through the immense procedure ahead which consisted of ten hours of surgery to remove the cancer and reconstruct her tongue.

Selene added: “I was shocked, but I was in amazing hands and I trusted him completely. My surgery went well and I got home in just under two weeks, which was really positive.

“It was a real struggle waiting for the results after surgery. I was very scared. I went through intensive radiotherapy and it was tough but the staff were absolutely amazing.”

With encouragement from a friend, Selene sought respite at Hope House, which she highlights as a turning point in her recovery.

Selene said, “It was there I realised there is definitely life after cancer. I went and joined a recovery programme. The first event I attended was Look Good, Feel Better, because you can lose confidence in your appearance. “I also signed up for art therapy with an amazing group of women. It really helped me heal.”

Selene highlighted the care and support she received during her journey: “I could not have done any of this without my family, the medical teams and the cancer support groups. The staff in the Ulster Hospital were just incredible. The first three days after treatment are really tough, you cannot speak or do anything. But they were there every step of the way.

“When I was finally able to talk again, one of the Nurses said, ‘It is so beautiful to hear your voice again.’ I’ll never forget that. Mr Hanratty has been amazing. He’s always been there as a sounding board, giving me advice and reassuring me. He told me to go out and live my life to the fullest. Now, whenever something comes up, I do not let it hold me back, I just go for it. I love to travel and I love to eat, I can do all of that again. I have been given a second chance at life and I am so grateful.

“Early detection is key. Go to your regular check-ups, if something feels strange, get it checked out.”

Highlighting the signs and symptoms of Oral Cancer, Consultant Oral & Maxillo-Facial Surgeon, Mr John Hanratty said: “Mouth cancer can present in different ways, it could be an ulcer that has been present for more than three weeks, a white or red patch in the mouth that is giving symptoms of pain, or a lump or swelling in the mouth, oral cavity or neck area. So we would ask that if you have any of these you should be checked by a Dentist or GP.

“Evidence also shows that oral cancer is more prevalent with social deprivation, poor diet, increased alcohol consumption and smoking which are all increased risk factors. We know that early detection and treatment can lead to better outcomes for the patient. But unfortunately only 20% of people will present with an early stage cancer.

“The majority — about 45% — will present with a cancer that is large or has spread elsewhere and this gives the cancer a greater stage and poorer outcome for patients. So we would ask that if you have a problem please don’t be afraid to let your Doctor or Dentist know.”

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