Welcome to my fundraising page and thanks for being here! 

On Thursday 28th September I will be "modelling" in the Breast Cancer Care London Fashion Show!  What makes this show uniquely special is that all of the models that take part, like me, have had a diagnosis of breast cancer.  

I would be eternally grateful if you could offer your support in the form of a donation and sponsor me to gracefully stumble my way down the catwalk!!

Why do I "fit the bill"?
I would love to say I was chosen based upon my looks (ha - if only!)... but I quite simply "fit the bill" because I have a diagnosis of breast cancer.  I was diagnosed with cancer aged 24, in July 2015.  I have undergone a range of intensive treatments over the last 2 years and will continue hormone therapies for the next ten years to try and prevent the cancer from returning.   
It certainly is a bittersweet affair, that a diagnosis of breast cancer has allowed me to be part of such an incredible opportunity and event run by the UK's biggest breast cancer charity.  It certainly goes to show that you can draw some positives out of a negative situation.  

Why did I apply to model in The Show?
I would like to be able to help represent breast cancer in younger women.  Raising awareness that breast cancer can happen to anyone at any age, including young adults, like me, is vitally important and a matter incredibly close to my heart.
I have lost a massive amount of confidence (and dignity!) since diagnosis.  Losing my hair,  eyelashes and eyebrows was devastating, but not only that; I lost my whole identity.  I felt completely unfeminine and I struggled to recognise myself, especially with facing weight gain from steroids and treatment.    To be able to get up and parade in front of such a large audience will be a HUGE, yet incredibly liberating challenge and one I feel will give me a confidence boost.  It's my way of showing people that you CAN face cancer with a smile and you CAN regain a new identity, however much you may miss the 'old' you.          

How have Breast Cancer Care supported me?
Being diagnosed has changed my life and I am grateful for charities such as Breast Cancer Care for the support that they provide and the additional focus they place on support for younger women, which is often hard to find.

My future remains uncertain and I have become more anxious about what lies ahead, with the ‘unknown’ feeling scarier than before.  Fear, grief, feeling alone and isolated are just a few of the emotional factors that are thrown in with the "cancer package" and every person diagnosed with cancer will experience these + more, regardless of what stage you are at from your diagnosis.  Many of us have to try and learn to live with the scars; physical and emotional and for some, the wounds won't ever heal. But Breast Cancer Care's online forums have allowed me to chat to other people in a similar situation and share experiences and exchange advice. Their endless sources of leaflets and monthly 'Vita' magazines have helped me better understand my diagnosis, effects of treatment and options for the future.  They also run residential courses that allow you the opportunity to meet others with a diagnosis, whilst receiving support and helpful information, away from the stresses of everyday life.  All of these services help tremendously and really have been a lifeline for me.    

How and why should YOU help?
So that Breast Cancer Care can continue their much needed and vital services and support for people nationwide, I am asking if you would kindly be able to spare a few pounds or pennies to help!  I would be forever grateful if you could offer your support in the form of a donation and sponsor me to take to the catwalk! 
You can donate up to any amount via this page... Or between £1 - £10 via text, by texting 'LAAH 90 and your donation amount to 70070 (e.g. 'LAAH 90 £10'). 

Thank you so much for your support. xo