Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer on the 3rd January 2024. After undergoing surgery and radiotherapy, I am now on five years of hormone treatment to help prevent recurrence in the future. Being told you have cancer at the age of 38 was terrifying, and my first thoughts were of my children and whether I would be around to see them grow up. Thankfully, it was caught at stage 2 and regarded as very treatable.

Once active treatment was over, I had to come to terms with having had cancer and what this might mean for my future. This also brought up a huge wave of grief over the loss of my parents, both of whom died from cancer—my mum at just 35 years old. Last summer was particularly challenging as I felt very sad and very lost.

One thing that truly helped me was attending a free two-day Moving Forward Course run by Breast Cancer Now. There, I met 14 other women who had been through similar experiences. It was amazing to connect with others who understood what I was going through; it provided me with a much-needed sense of perspective! Breast Cancer Now also conducts vital research into causes and treatments, funding initiatives like the Oncotype test that assesses chemotherapy needs (which thankfully I did not require). Their website is a fantastic resource filled with forums where women can talk and find support.

I am eager to raise funds for this incredible charity so that other women can benefit from attending this course as well. Together with family and friends, I will be participating in the Pink Ribbon Walk 2025 at Blenheim Palace on May 10th, where we aim to walk 20 miles in support of Breast Cancer Now. This will be quite a challenge for me as I've never walked that distance in one go!

Thank you for any donations given - I am very grateful for your support!