Back in April this year, my sister Angela was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. This came as a devastating shock to Angela & all those close to her.  Thrown into turmoil and after the initial shock, Angela stood up to the cancer and continues to do so.  She's a tough little cookie and an inspiration to us all, words can't tell you how proud I am of her.  

Following the diagnosis, Angela became more knowledgable on Breast Cancer & the Impact that this would mean for her & her family going forward.  She was immediately on my case too, making sure I checked myself. Angela also feels it's vital for us all to be aware of the signs.  

My aim of setting up this page is to help promote Breast Cancer Awareness.  

A few important facts:

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the UK

Although rare, Breast Cancer can also affect MEN, so men please take note too! 

Currently breast screening is carried out from 50 years old. Angela is 42, she only found out she had breast cancer because she discovered a lump and went to the doctors. This is why it's so important to be BREAST AWARE:

I remember asking my sister how do I know what I'm checking for?? There is no special way, just Remember to check all parts of your breasts, your armpits and up to your collarbone. Do this regularly to check for changes. I've attached a picture showing signs and symptoms to be looking out for. If anything changes or your unsure then see your Doctor. Most breast changes are normal breast changes or due to a benign (not cancer) breast condition, but it’s important to find out what’s causing the change.

Finding a cancer early gives the best chance of successful treatment.

There are many sites providing information but I have found these ones to be useful.

Www.breastcancercare.org.uk

Www.cancerresearchuk.org

To date, Angela has undergone surgery & is currently having Chemotherapy.  Just one of the many potential side effects of Chemo is dealing with hair loss, which is something she is dealing with right now.  

I think it's fair to say that this is perhaps one of the biggest hurdles to face.  Can you imagine how this would make you feel to be stripped of your identity, the heartache of your hair falling out and then Facing the world...

As soon as I knew Angela would lose her hair I decided that I would have my hair chopped off (approx 17") and donate it to the "Little Princess Trust"    A charity providing real-hair wigs, free of charge, to children that have sadly lost their own hair through cancer treatment.  Www.littleprincesses.org.uk

I will be having my hair cut off by Anthony at Salon Messina on Thursday 27th July at 2.15pm and then the hair plaits will be sent directly to the charity.  We plan to make it a fun but a relaxing experience at the salon.  Feel free to pop along to join in on the fun.  Will be great to see you there.  Www.salonmessina.com 

Along side donating my hair I would like to raise as much money as possible for the chemotherapy unit at Broomfield hospital where my sister is currently receiving her treatment and where they help many more people fight their battle with cancer.  

By supporting my JustGiving page, You can help the Chemotherapy Unit to benefit patients who are undergoing treatment there. 

I hope I have helped to achieve Breast Cancer Awareness and I do hope you can continue to follow my story.  

 Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

With "locks" of love, Clare xx

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.