In January 2022 one night I noticed an indent in my right breast. It looked slightly concave. Only visible to me by the reflection in the mirror. I was not too concerned at this point but did agree with my husband to book a doctors appointment the following morning to get it checked out. This was the start of my journey with breast cancer. To me breast cancer was lumps in your boob, yet upon mentioning the indent in my breast to the receptionist at the doctors I was booked in that morning to see a wonderful doctor. I write wonderful, for after examining me and noting there was a lump deep inside my breast and I would need to be referred for further examination (mammogram), she spoke with me about how I was going to explain this to my daughters and husband. It was not yet confirmed I had cancer, but my mind was already working through the scenarios, mainly scary ones!! And she gave me a cuddle! Such a simple act that to me meant so much. Two very long weeks later, it was 99% confirmed (awaiting biopsy results) that I had breast cancer. Walking out of the doctors room to my husband (COVID restrictions) waiting for me, I thought my legs would give way. I’m not sure I even fully told him at that point, I think the nod and tears visible over my mask gave it away. I do remember him holding my hand (something rare ha ha). The drive home that night was hard. Yes, I was frightened, but my fears mainly were for my daughters and husband. Strangely it was difficult telling people. How do you tell your loved ones you have cancer? I couldn’t quite face talking to people at that point so I messaged my friends and family. And I’m so glad I did. I couldn’t have got through this without them. When I mentioned I was going to do this walk, my gorgeous friends jumped straight in to join me - and the team Holy Walkermolies was formed! And those who couldn’t (due to other commitments) pledged to support us, not just by donating but joining us on our training walks - keeping us going! I am so grateful for the amazing friends and family I have. So, yes I have a story. But sadly so do so many women and men. By 2030, it’s estimated that 1.2 million women will be living with the disease. We are walking not for me but for those that unfortunately are yet to go through this. By sponsoring our Pink Ribbon Walk you can help change the lives of men and women and the future of breast cancer. Thank you for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

Love Tan and the rest of the Holy Walkermolies- Christine Peel, Liane Gray, Linda Edwards, Marie McCormack (and Karen Phillips)