Sophie's story
My diagnosis has made me more determined to enjoy every moment, especially with my daughter, to say yes to things and not put off things I want to do ‘for another day’.
My diagnosis has made me more determined to enjoy every moment
I live in Brighton and I’m a single mum to Maya; I’m incredibly close to my daughter and she’s been amazing throughout my breast cancer journey.
I was diagnosed with Ashermans Syndrome in 2007 and spent 10 years having over 24 operations - I’m now basically being held together with internal scaffolding! I do think it prepared me for dealing with my breast cancer diagnosis.
Those first few weeks were absolutely the toughest time of my life and all I could think about was my daughter
I had a lumpectomy in 2021 after being diagnosed at 48 with invasive ductal breast cancer and I’m now on Tamoxifen after having radiotherapy. I feel that I got off lightly with my treatment plan and recovery compared to many. Being outdoors has played a huge role in my recovery and keeping my mental health in check during covid and cancer. I run regularly along the seafront before the crowds arrive which is so peaceful, and I love sea swimming in summer (but not when it’s freezing cold!)
I strongly believe in being my own advocate towards taking care of my health and not being afraid to see a doctor if I have any concerns
There is unfortunately a lot of cancer on both sides of my family, so we’re now even more vigilant and aware that we need to regular check our bodies. It’s vital to know your own normal. Our family gets through most of our tough times through fun, humour and laughter and being involved with wear it pink is a light-hearted way to raise awareness of a fantastic campaign and give something back to Breast Cancer Now.
For those of us who went through treatment during lockdowns
I’ve met so many brave, courageous, inspiring, and wonderful women since being diagnosed. The support and strength they give each other is phenomenal. That supportive community was invaluable especially for those of us who went through our appointments and treatment alone during Covid.
Since going through breast cancer I embrace and love life even more than before
I know it sounds very cheesy, but my diagnosis has made me more determined to enjoy every moment, especially with my daughter, to say yes to things and not put off things I want to do ‘for another day’.
Funnily enough I never used to wear pink, but the wear it pink campaign has inspired me wear it now!
I’d say the brighter and more outrageous the outfits are for wear it pink, the better! It doesn’t matter if you do it on your own and take some selfies, or whether you get dressed up with a group of friends, family, or work colleagues.
Join Sophie and wear it pink on 21 October!
