According to BreastCancerNow.org, just over 10,000 women under the age of 50 are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK each year. Around 7,600 of these women will be in their 40’s. 

On 15th January this year, I became one of those women.

Being told that I have breast cancer made my head spin and the sensation of ‘fight or flight’ running through me felt like quite a contrast to the steady, ‘calm’ nodding of my head whilst I tried, but failed, to take in everything the consultant was telling me.

Now that I’ve processed different things about it all, my next step is to focus on what I can do to keep me motivated and strong throughout my operation and treatment.

I’ve decided I would like to try and raise money for the NNUH Boudicca Breast Cancer Appeal. Their aim is to provide a dedicated breast cancer unit that will be able to give all patients the opportunity to receive same-day diagnosis instead of having to attend repeat appointments for scans and results. The wait in between appointments was something I found difficult both emotionally and mentally. This is no one’s fault, it’s just how great the demands are that they are facing.

My plan...anyone who knows me knows how much I value being able to run. Last year I ran the year in miles for no other reason than to see if I could! This year I would like to do the same- obviously 2021 miles this time. I would love to raise £2021 and if I think of any other challenges I can do along the way then I will! I am aware that at some points the running may be a bit of a struggle but on those days I will walk whatever miles I can- anything to allow me to total up those miles.

Please, please, please if you can, donate! I realise we are going through tough and tricky times but anything you can spare will be gratefully received.

Also; please, please, please, join me if you want to! Virtual or social distanced- I’m always open to sharing with a running buddy (no obligation to run at 0430hrs though!)

AND; please, please, please share this if you can. It’s not so much about my story but about raising money for this charity and also reminding people how important it is to get ourselves checked out if we find any unusual lumps or niggles. Don’t be shy- it’s too important.

Thank you 

* Just want to add.... my total from 1st Jan to the start of this page was 289.9 miles, so not too many more to go💜