Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page in support of my Sister Gemma (Gem).

For those of you that don’t know, Gem was diagnosed with Breast Cancer on 29th April 2025.

Gem was also told her job was too high risk, so would need to remain off work for the duration of her treatment and was required to reduce contact with people as much as possible to avoid contracting viruses or infections while her immune system was vulnerable.

On 11th September Gem completed the 1st stage of her treatment in the form of Chemotherapy and will begin the 2nd stage on Friday 10th October, which involves a Lumpectomy and Lymphadenectomy. Once she has been checked by her consulting team, she will then receive radiotherapy and finally reconstructive surgery (and a reduction of the healthy breast).

Having come to terms with the diagnosis and the long journey ahead of her, Gem wanted to reach out to bring more awareness of this disease and how important it is to check your body for anything that feels unusual or looks suspicious and to have it checked by a professional as soon as possible!

Gem was fortunate to seek medical advice and a diagnosis in time for her to begin treatment that would enable her cancer to be treated and for her to see her family grow.

While receiving Chemotherapy Gem also made the decision to receive the Cold cap therapy to try to preserve as much of her hair as possible. Gem managed to complete 4/6 sessions which certainly made a difference, but due to the thinning of hair on the top of her head, she found it too painful to continue.

Loosing her hair meant a loss of confidence in how she felt and looked, so Gem decided she wanted to shave the remaining hair off.

Gem felt this helped her gain some control back during this difficult period of time of her life.

Over the past 5months Gem has grown a strong support network of family and friends who have supported her every step of the way, of which she said she is forever grateful for.

From ‘mocktail Chemo parties’ and outside gatherings to maintain her safety, to thoughtful gift baskets and teaching her how she can accessorise with headscarf’s, everyone has been incredible to help maintain her sanity.

In addition to the daily support, attending all the medical appointments and helping with childcare, Gem’s husband Jonathan and I decided we wanted to take it a step further, so we have braved the shave!

Gem and I always get mistaken by twins, so why not ‘twin’ with her at one of the most challenging times of her life?!?! She is my rock, my absolute world and I will always do anything I can to put a smile on my sister’s face!

If anyone would like to support my latest ‘twinning’ antic, then I have set up this fundraising page to donate whatever you can to Aurora. They are a wonderful Charity who offer a fantastic support for patients to navigate through their ‘cancer’ journey.

Thank you all for reading and your continued support and love at this challenging time.

Much love xxx

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