Breast Cancer Care helped me feel a lot less alone
Maria was made aware of Breast Cancer Care – one of the two charities Tickled Pink supports – when she was diagnosed with the disease in 2004.
She recommends their website as the best place for women to find support when they’re first diagnosed, and also for friends and family who are looking for more information.
Maria says: “Cancer wipes out your confidence – I didn’t expect it to but it really did happen.”
She attended a two-day younger Women’s Forum held by Breast Cancer Care for women under 40 who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. The forum in Nottingham provided advice and support sessions from doctors and other healthcare professionals, and an opportunity to meet women going through the same experience.
Maria says: “It was so helpful meeting other women – it helped me feel a lot less alone.”
One of the most positive experiences was taking part in the annual Breast Cancer Care fashion show.
“Getting out on that catwalk with 1000 people cheering, you come out on cloud nine. It really helps your strength and confidence.” Maria now volunteers and helps out at the event each year.
Maria would love to see more Breast Cancer Care projects being funded in more regions around the country to reach out to as many women as possible. “It does so much for women with breast cancer.”
It’s now five years since Maria’s diagnosis and she’s hoping to receive the all-clear in August. “I’m still scared, but it will be very liberating – I’ve beaten it.”
