A mother has received a terminal diagnosis of breast cancer after being denied screenings for several years due to her age and subsequently discovering a lump. Chantelle Van Der Watt, who had regular mammograms in South Africa due to her family’s cancer history, began requesting screenings upon moving to the UK in 2020. However, at the age of 34, she did not qualify for the NHS breast screening program, which starts at age 50.
Despite advocating for earlier screenings, it wasn’t until Chantelle was 39 that she found a lump in her breast. Despite concerns and a family history of breast cancer, medical professionals initially dismissed her symptoms due to her age. In early 2025, she received the devastating news of breast cancer, which had already spread to her bones, giving her a limited life expectancy.
In response to her diagnosis, Chantelle has launched a fundraiser to secure a permanent residence for her family, aiming to provide stability for her children amidst the uncertainty of her illness. Expressing her fears about missing important milestones in her children’s lives, she emphasized the importance of having a stable home for her family.
After persistently requesting screenings and experiencing concerning symptoms, Chantelle’s cancer diagnosis highlighted the challenges faced by younger individuals seeking early detection. As she battles the disease with medication, she remains dedicated to supporting her family through the fundraiser. Donations to assist Chantelle and her family can be made through her GoFundMe page.
Reflecting on her journey, Chantelle highlighted the discrepancies in screening age criteria between countries and the impact of delayed diagnosis on her prognosis. Despite the difficulties she faces, Chantelle remains determined to provide a sense of security and comfort for her family during this challenging time.
Milton Keynes University Hospital expressed sympathy for Chantelle’s situation and affirmed their commitment to providing her with exceptional care. They clarified that screening program guidelines are nationally set and not determined by the hospital, emphasizing the importance of prompt diagnosis and specialized care for patients like Chantelle.
The Department of Health and Social Care was approached for comment, while the NHS reiterated its age-based screening protocol, emphasizing the higher incidence of breast cancer in older women. The NHS encourages women to undergo their first screening between the ages of 50 and 53 and continue regular screenings until the age of 71 to detect potential cancerous developments early.