Kris was told she had incurable breast cancer at 23
Life in your twenties consists of partying, seeing the world, spending time with friends and doing whatever you want, whenever you want. Breast cancer, though? It’s not exactly at the forefront of an average 20-something's mind. Sadly, this was quickly the reality for Kris Hallenga, the co-founder of CoppaFeel!, who found a lump while living abroad in Asia at just 22. After visiting her doctor, Kris was told the devastating news that she had incurable breast cancer.
Like many of us, Kris didn’t realise breast cancer could affect someone at such a young age. The earlier breast cancer is caught, the more treatable it can be, so, desperate to share her story and educate others, Kris made it her mission to encourage and empower young people to check themselves regularly.
Frankie found a lump after her weight loss
‘I lost quite a lot of weight years ago- we all know that it goes off your boobs when you don’t want it to! Shortly after, I noticed a large lump on my breast that wasn’t there before. Panic set in, so I called the GP and they got me in straight away!
I had to wait a week or two for a scan and they informed me straight away that it was NOT cancer, but a lump which had probably always been there but was harder to notice before I lost weight. Since then, I have been very good at noticing any lumps or bumps!'Please check ladies and gents- but remember to not always jump straight to the worst-case scenario.
Karen survived an aggressive stage 3 cancer
‘4 years ago, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy and went for my results 3 weeks later where I was sadly told that it’d changed to grade 3 aggressive cancer. My oncologist told me I would die if he couldn’t operate within two days. So, I had another lumpectomy, and the doctor took 22cm away altogether. I had 6 months of chemo and 5 weeks of radiotherapy- I've never been so afraid in all my life.''It’s still tough sometimes because I have ongoing issues like chronic nerve pain and lymphoedema in my left arm, but I am so grateful to be alive today. Everyone please check, check, check!'
Emma checks herself more often
‘A couple of years ago I found a lump on my breast and was immediately terrified! I contacted my doctor, and they weren’t too concerned but sent me for a scan anyway. Thankfully, it turned out to be nothing serious, but it was a big reminder to check myself more often.’
Ann knows breast cancer doesn’t care how old you are
‘I come from a small village where a 23-year-old girl had a really tough fight with breast cancer- if you’re young, don’t think it won’t happen to you. It’s important to know that you know your body more than anyone. If the young woman didn’t push things further with the doctors, she may not be still here now. Please check yourself and get to know what feels right for you.’
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month we’re urging everyone to regularly check their boobs, pecs and chests to find what their normal feels like.
