6 September 2024

Just over a year ago, at only 31, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My 2023 was rocked – I have no family history and I'm so young! Luckily it was caught early, and I received surgery and chemotherapy. It was tough but my family and friends were all there for me. I'm happy to say I'm all clear now and focused on making the most of things (including how many different hairstyles I can try!).

During my treatment, I received a huge amount of support from the Macmillan Cancer Centre at Portsmouth Hospital - self-esteem workshops, wig appointments, therapies, reiki, massages, and it was always somewhere to go to chat to someone over a cup of tea and a puzzle. The amazing thing is these services are all free and mostly run by volunteers. It really made a difference to me and everyone going through Cancer should be able to access these support services.

I decided as part of my recovery I would take up running for the first time and then I had a great idea! I signed up for the Great South Run this October - a 10mile race set in Portsmouth - to raise funds for the Cancer Centre. It'll be the longest I've run; my first race and I've got a lot of training to do!