Hi Everyone

Thank you for taking the time to visit my Just Giving page.

There are many reasons this year why I wanted to raise awareness for Breast Cancer and get involved in fundraising for Wear It Pink Day. I also hope that by sharing my own story it may help someone else now or anyone that reads it in the future. 

Early detection and treatment is key not only with breast cancer but all other cancers, heart conditions and many other illnesses. 2020 has been a crazy/strange rollercoaster of a year for everyone and looking after your health , well being and mental health has never been more important. 

6 weeks into lockdown I discovered a lump, I made the decision to see my GP straight away and they immediately referred  me to Sheffield Breast Services to see a member of their team for investigation. On that very first appointment I was given a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsies were taken and they also wanted me to return  the following day for further tests and biopsies.

An appointment was made for the following week and on the 27th May I returned for my results which confirmed their suspicions , I had Breast Cancer.

My surgeon arranged for me to have a CT that day and told me that I had to start shielding straight away . I was to return 1 week later for the results and to discuss my treatment plan. On the 3rd June he gave me the best possible news he could have , my cancer had not spread and was treatable.  I needed surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy but all I could do was smile at him, he had told me all I needed to hear.  If not for masks, social distancing he would have got one of my biggest hugs. My surgery was booked for 2 weeks later, it was very successful, no complications and my cancer was removed . They have been amazing  every step of the way from my first appointment on the 19th May to surgery only 1 month later on the 19th June, all in the middle of a pandemic.  

I was given some recovery time  and my chemotherapy started at Weston Park Hospital on the 30th July. I am due my 5th cycle the day before Wear it Pink day. 

As I'm shielding and  in the middle of treatment it sort of restricted what I could do to fundraise. Without me having to even ask my amazing family and friends  stepped up as they always do and wanted to help and support in any way they could.  They are all joining me in wearing pink, where covid rules allow organising raffles, classes, a video and  events to raise awareness and money for research,  care and support for everyone affected by breast cancer. 

They have been with me right from day one with so much love, support and help to get me through my treatment and shielding days at home. I have had to attend all hospital appointments and treatments solo due to Covid and totally understandable. However I have never once felt alone  , I take you all with me and it feels like I have a small army with me every time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of your lovely messages, cards, phone calls, video calls, jokes, flowers, thoughtful gifts, garden visits, and for just being the amazing friends and family you are . I am so very lucky and blessed to have you all in my life. I will never forget all you have done and I can't express how much it has meant to me.

I can honestly say there have been lots of laughs and smiles along the way and it seems to have passed quickly so far. I've still a little way to go but I'm feeling very well, strong and positive and my treatment is going very well. Weston Park is a remarkable and amazing hospital. I urge everyone to be self aware and if you are not sure please don't hesitate to seek medical help.

 I would also like to thank all of you that have shared with me such inspiring stories of your mums, sisters, daughters, aunties, grandparents ,family members and friends who have either battled or are fighting breast cancer. 

I wanted to do my little bit in honour of survivors, for all current fighters , in memory of those who have sadly lost their battle and with hope that our children and future generations never have to fear it.

Breast Cancer Now is a research and care charity that believe if we all act now by 2050 everyone who develops breast cancer will not only live ..... but live well and that is my hope too.  

 Any support you can give however small would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and hopefully before we know it, I will be ringing or even Tarzan swinging on the Weston Park Bell.