News

Imperial nurse helps Corrie scriptwriters on breast cancer story - 02 February 2010

A breast cancer nurse from Imperial College Healthcare has been helping Coronation Street scriptwriters with the portrayal of Sally Webster’s battle against the disease.

Clinical nurse specialist Vickki Harmer (pictured right), of St Mary's Hospital, Paddington, was approached by the soap through Breakthrough Breast Cancer to assist with the storyline which has seen Sally have an operation to remove a malignant breast lump.

Vickki, who has previously assisted with breast cancer stories in Five’s soap Family Affairs and BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, said she was delighted to be asked for her advice on how to make Corrie’s script accurate and understandable for viewers.

“I feel very privileged to be involved in such an important process because soap operas are watched by millions, some at risk of the disease," said Vickki.

“If storylines aren’t handled sensitively and give out the wrong information, they can do untold damage so it’s been hugely rewarding to work with such responsible scriptwriters."

Vickki advised on both the practical aspects of breast cancer treatment, such as surgery and chemotherapy, as well as the emotional challenges patients and their families often face.

“I explained that while every woman is different, most will go through emotions of grief, shock, denial and anger, and these feelings change over time as the patient moves through the stages of diagnoses, treatment and aftercare.

“Some women experience a new lease of life after treatment, others just want to get back into their old routine and return to normal."

Vickki added that she didn’t know Sally’s fate but she was sure viewers would be gripped by the storyline as it unfolds.

ENDS

For further information contact Cassie Zachariou, communications manager, on 020 3312 2200 or email cassie.zachariou@imperial.nhs.uk.