At the end of 2021, I had the the biggest shock of my life  and was told that I had grade 3 triple negative breast cancer. While I knew breast cancer was common (on average 55,000 women and 370 men are diagnosed every year), I never thought it would happen to me, and particularly not in my early 30s. While I am still returning to my previous fitness levels, I am so grateful that my treatment has had a successful outcome. I am also very aware of how different the outcome could have been had I not found the lump and sought treatment when I did. I naively did not check myself regularly, and now want to encourage every woman to be checking themselves often and to seek help promptly: the sooner an issue is found the quicker it can be treated and the more likely it will be that the prognosis would be good. 

CoppaFeel! are the first UK breast cancer charity to create awareness amongst young people, with the aim to instil a new healthy behaviour that could one day save a life. They are on a mission to ensure breast cancer is diagnosed early and correctly by getting the nation to check their boobs/chest regularly. They want to educate people on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, encourage them to get to know what is normal for them and empower young people to have the confidence to see a doctor if they notice anything that isn't right for them.

I am excited (and nervous!) to be taking on the Coppatrek Mont Blanc Challenge to raise money and awareness of this vital work. The challenge is 51km of the Mont Blanc Circuit over a 5-day trek. I’m sure I will have some very sore feet, but luckily know plenty of great podiatrists!  I am very grateful for any support and sponsorship that you can offer. Thank you all in advance. 

Best wishes

Lesley