This is not a story I ever thought I’d have to share, but on 15/09/2023, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, aged 31 🎀. Life quickly turned into a rollercoaster of emotions, appointments, scans, tests, results, procedures, surgeries, treatments, side effects, hair loss & anxiety. BUT in late March I reached the end of four & half months of chemotherapy!! Surgery is done, treatment is complete and the cancer is GONE!! For this, and SO many other reasons along this journey, I feel incredibly grateful and blessed.

Having been given the all clear to ease back into exercise, Jack & I have set ourselves the challenge to run our first ever 13.1 miles, at the Manchester Half in October (6 months post chemo!). Alongside raising awareness for breast cancer in younger women (and in particular how early detection can save lives), we're also fundraising for The Christie, where I received my chemotherapy treatment. The Christie became a ‘safe haven’ for Jack and I, throughout what was a really difficult time during treatment. The Drs, Nurses, Surgeons, Oncologists, Radiographers, Chemo Nurses & hospital staff at The Christie can only be described as pure angels and we are in awe of their work! We can't wait to take on this challenge for such an important cause; to raise funds to support research and treatments and most importantly to give thanks to all of the amazing medical teams and staff who make The Christie such a special place.

One thing I’ve learnt through my diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, it's that cancer doesn’t discriminate and unfortunately it could happen to any of us. Early detection has saved my life and so the main message I want to (& will continue to) shout loud and clear is to GET TO KNOW YOUR BODY; do your regular checks, attend your screening appointments and most importantly advocate for yourself. Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, get it checked. If you’re not confident in the results, get it checked again!

Thanks so much for your support. Any donation you can make will be HUGELY appreciated!

The Christie charity provides enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds. Your support can help to fund life-changing and potentially life-saving projects that will benefit cancer patients both now and in the future.

Faye & Jack xxx