Breast cancer in pregnancy: graduate’s project receives national recognition
Megan Blunden was shortlisted for a national Student Nursing Times Award
As a first-year student I had the privilege of supporting a woman who was undergoing treatment for pregnancy-associated breast cancer.
While the incidence is rare, it is disproportionately found at an advanced stage. This is largely because the physiological changes of pregnancy can easily mask the signs and symptoms of cancer, making it difficult for both the woman and the clinician to distinguish between what is physiological and what is concerning.
"The comprehensive midwifery programme at the University of Plymouth provided a framework for interprofessional learning, ensuring that my clinical knowledge was always supported by a collaborative approach to patient safety. Alongside this, the advanced simulation training facilities encouraged high-quality clinical skills development and bridged the gap between theory and practice.
"However, what truly set my experience apart was the supportive leadership from the midwifery faculty.
"Having access to mentors who have invested in my personal growth has given me the confidence to thrive in my role as a newly qualified midwife.”
Megan is passionate about her subject and produced an outstanding undergraduate quality improvement proposal to integrate education and awareness into practice in the NHS.
Mrs Angela Thompson
Lecturer in Midwifery