Story
In the words of Penny Brohn: 'Because I need more than medicine'
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2020. I had surgery in January 2021 and I am now undergoing chemo, which will be followed by radiotherapy in the summer.
The most important message to take from this is CHECK YOUR BREASTS - this does happen to people like you, as I found out.
Since my diagnosis I have had unwavering support and love from family and friends, for which I cannot express how grateful I am.
And the fantastic team at Wycombe hospital have got the medical side covered (with amazing 24 hour support). But cancer is so much more than a medical diagnosis. So, I was also determined to do everything I could to help myself.
When I discovered the Penny Brohn UK website, I felt overwhelmed by what they offer, for free. They host a wide range of Zoom sessions and courses, for cancer patients, every week on subjects ranging from nutrition, treatment support groups, movement classes to relaxation sessions plus individual counselling and emotional support.
They are making my journey so much easier, have given me focus and enabled me to make informed decisions about so many parts of my treatment.
Although they are a national charity, they are based in Bristol, not far from where I was brought up. This was another reason that raising money for them, by shaving my head, was an obvious choice (and it's so lucky I like wearing hats - as you can see in the gallery - although the verdict on getting a pink wig is still out...!).
Thank you.
At Penny Brohn UK we support anyone affected by cancer. Our holistic approach to helping people live well with cancer - The Bristol Whole Life Approach - gives anyone affected by cancer the practical, emotional and social support they need to improve their quality of life and to manage the fear and uncertainty that a cancer diagnosis may bring. With your support we can provide more life changing support to people who need our help the most.