This survey was carried out as part of an on going audit of women’s satisfaction with aspects of the breast screening service. Experience of breast screening is complex and affects both clients and their families. The core biopsy procedure has shown a degree of distress to the relatives as well as the patient, not only physically but also mentally. This article describes the journey women undertake before diagnosis. It demonstrates the potential for the nurse to provide more breast awareness initiatives in clinics, through health education and during the breast screening programme.