In 2013, at just 44, Julie was diagnosed with breast cancer. With her family and friends beside her, she went through the pain and trauma of chemotherapy, then surgery, then radiotherapy. She thought that was it. Then, in summer 2015, she found a lump. The doctor confirmed the news she was dreading - the cancer was back. But there was worse news, the cancer had spread to her liver - she had secondary breast cancer - incurable.
Whilst some drugs are available on the NHS, the specialist liver radiotherapy that can help eliminate the liver tumours isn't. By taking on various challenges and organising events, Julie's family and friends are hoping to raise £30,000 for selective internal radiation therapy to help give Julie and her family more precious years together. So far, £21,000 has been raised, thanks to the generosity of friends and strangers alike. Julie has been overwhelmed by everyone's support. Julie is hoping to start her radiotherapy treatment at the start of December, so we really need to raise that extra £9,000 now.
Any additional funds will go to the secondary breast cancer charity Second Hope and the Breast Cancer Action Group who have been particularly supportive to Julie.