Dr Meme Wijesinghe, a respiratory consultant from Truro, Cornwall, supports lung cancer patients daily. Experiencing her own cancer diagnosis, however, opened her eyes to the challenges patients face.
“Telling someone they have lung cancer is one of the hardest parts of my job,” she explains. “Patients respond with sadness, anger, despair, and sometimes relief, as their symptoms finally have an explanation. But you can’t truly understand the impact until you’ve been through it yourself.”
My Breast Cancer Journey
Dr Wijesinghe was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 at 44. She underwent a mastectomy and five years of hormonal treatment.
“I feel incredibly lucky to be a cancer survivor. The care I received from my breast cancer team was excellent,” she says. “I also learned a lot about how differently lung cancer patients are treated compared to other cancers.”
Differences Between Breast and Lung Cancer
“Diagnosing breast cancer is usually simpler. There’s often only one clear path to a biopsy. Lung cancer, on the other hand, has multiple biopsy routes. Some are invasive and carry significant risk.”
“When I found a lump in my breast, I attended a one-stop clinic. I saw a consultant, had a mammogram, a biopsy, and learned I had cancer—all in one afternoon. Lung cancer patients rarely get that speed. Many wait longer due to diagnostic challenges and limited resources.”
Challenges of Lung Cancer Diagnosis
“Lung cancer often appears late because symptoms are subtle and overlooked. Late diagnoses limit curative treatment options,” she explains.
“People also wrongly assume patients are to blame because they smoke or have smoked. While smoking is a leading cause, many never knew the risks or have never smoked. Cases in non-smokers, especially younger women, are rising. In the UK, more women die from lung cancer than breast and ovarian cancer combined.”
Equal Treatment Matters
“Everyone with cancer deserves equal treatment. This requires fair distribution of funding for research and care. Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation amplifies the voice of lung cancer patients. It provides advice and support to patients and families alike.”
“I received immense support during my diagnosis. I know the charity offers equally invaluable support to those with lung cancer.”
Impact of Lung Cancer Screening
“The charity has helped secure the implementation of lung cancer screening. In Cornwall, the Targeted Lung Health Check programme began in October 2023. In just five months, we diagnosed 33 lung cancers, mostly early-stage. Many patients could receive curative treatment.”
“We are making real progress in improving outcomes for people with lung cancer,” she adds.
Running for a Cause
Dr Wijesinghe is now training for her first marathon for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.
“I’ve run for years but never beyond a half marathon. Turning 50 and finishing my cancer treatment felt like the perfect time to challenge myself. Training around a busy job and family life has been tough, but my family has been incredibly supportive. My goal is to finish within five hours, but crossing the line will be celebration enough.”
“I want my fundraising to raise awareness, improve early detection, and support patients through their journeys.”
You can donate to Meme’s London Marathon fundraiser through her JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/meme-wijesinghe-1708960055717