In March this year, I found a lump in my left breast.  I'm not someone who makes a habit of checking my breasts or underarms so it was very random that I actually found it.  I'd already had an appointment booked at my gp's that afternoon so thought I would get her to check. My gp found the lump but wasn't overly concerned as it was mobile so she booked to see me again in 2 weeks. Over the next couple of days I felt very uneasy with her response so decided to get a referral and went to the One Stop Breast clinic at Kings Oak.  I had a mammogram and an ultrasound, which showed the lump and also a swollen gland in my underarm, this led to the doctor taking a biopsy.  Within a few days, my results were back and I was diagnosed with Stage 1 grade 2 breast cancer.  Within a couple of weeks I had all my scans and a mastectomy of my left breast. A couple of month down the line and I am doing really well.  After extensive tests i.e. onco test and removing the skin around the tumour, I have been told that I do not any chemotherapy or radiotherapy which is really great.  All I need is Hormone Therapy for the next 5-10 years.  I want to share my story so that women younger than 50 are aware how common breast cancer at any age can be and how important and vital it is to check yourself regularly and get anything abnormal checked out straight away regardless of how concerned your gp may be or not. I am determined to raise as much awareness as possible of the importance of getting yourself a mammogram and ultrasound on a yearly basis, to prevent this disease from claiming any more lives.

I'm holding an Afternoon Tea Fundraiser on Saturday 21st July from 1pm at Highlands Village Hall, 5 Florey Square, Winchmore Hill N21 1UJ, to raise as much money as possible for Breast Cancer Care, as they have been there for me from the beginning of this whole journey I have gone through.  From the amazing consultant I have had, to the nurses and my plastic surgeon.  I would like to help make sure Breast Cancer Care's support is there for everyone affected by breast cancer. With 62,000 people told they have breast cancer every year, there's never been a greater need for Breast Cancer Care's life - changing support both today and tomorrow. With your help, the money we raise will give people the opportunity to access free services, such as speaking with expert nurses on the Helpline and using the Forum. Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.