Back in November last year, my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer during a routine scan. The doctor requested biopsies, and then the news came—BREAST CANCER. She was admitted to the hospital on Christmas Day, underwent surgery on Boxing Day, and began her first radiotherapy session on Valentine’s Day… I’m incredibly grateful that she’s still with us. She was fortunate enough to catch it early, which made her treatment more effective. Her experience has shown me just how crucial timely breast cancer screenings are for all women.

Earlier this year, I attended an event in Manchester on International Women’s Day to raise awareness for Prevent Breast Cancer in partnership with the Tim Bacon Foundation. It was a truly emotional day for me, hearing incredible stories from brave women and thinking about my sister’s journey—it brought endless tears to my eyes. Andy Burnham also shared his personal experiences, making it a day I will never forget.

Did you know that breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK? Over 56,800 people are diagnosed with it each year—that’s 156 people every single day—and sadly, 11,500 lives are lost annually.

Since my sister’s diagnosis, I’ve been searching for ways to raise awareness about self-diagnosis and support life-saving initiatives like the National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA). This vital project needs £3.9 million to open its doors. So far, they’ve raised over £2.98 million, but they still need just under £912,000. Once operational, the NBIA will allow up to 13,000 additional patients to be seen at The Nightingale Centre annually and provide dedicated space for crucial research into breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The impact will be life-changing.

In my search for ways to contribute, I came across the Kilimanjaro Trek to Prevent Breast Cancer. I’m excited (and a little nervous) to share that I’ll be participating in this challenge starting 6th September 2025.

I’ll admit, while I love walking and being in nature, the thought of trekking up Kilimanjaro is a bit daunting! But I’ve decided to take on this challenge to help raise awareness and support people like my sister who are fighting this battle every day.

If this post inspires you to talk about breast cancer with your family, friends, or colleagues, or even just encourages you to check yourself or learn more about self-diagnosis, I’ll feel like I’ve achieved something meaningful. And if you feel moved to make a donation—no matter how big or small—it would mean the world to me.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Wishing you all a wonderful festive season with your loved ones!

Jenny