Like many of you, I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January this year. It was a particularly tough blow because just 18 months earlier, my partner had been diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer. After surgery to remove his tumor, his prognosis was positive, and life had finally started to return to normal. So when I heard those three life-changing words, “You have cancer,” we were both absolutely stunned.
My surgeon was incredibly compassionate but left no doubt that the only viable option was a left breast mastectomy. On February 13th, I underwent the surgery, which included reconstruction. It was a long procedure, lasting several hours, but thankfully, it was a success.
Once I returned home, my partner, family, and friends were amazing. They helped with cooking, cleaning, shopping, and keeping me company, as I wasn’t allowed to drive for six weeks. I was also told I couldn’t play any sports for at least six months, which was a tough adjustment.
I won’t sugarcoat it—the first few weeks were challenging. Sleep was difficult, and coming off HRT sent me straight into overdrive menopause. Hot flushes and joint aches from taking Anastrazole became part of my daily life. But over time, I learned to cope. I even began to find humor in it—when I’d pull out my fan during meetups with friends, we’d share a laugh about it.
By the six-month mark, I was eager to return to sports. Unfortunately, that wasn’t to be—I developed a frozen shoulder! And as if that wasn’t enough, I also had to have my big toenail removed due to retronychia.
Despite everything, I refused to let this defeat me. I’m naturally a positive, determined person, and I took this time to reevaluate my life and set new priorities. In July, I began planning a bucket list trip, and in January next year, I’ll embark on a six-week solo adventure to Australia and New Zealand—a dream come true!
Fate also stepped in. I discovered an incredible travel business and am now a fully qualified ABTA and ATOL Independent Travel Agent. This not only saved me hundreds of pounds on my trip but also opened up new doors for me.
One thing I must share with you all: travel insurance. As a cancer survivor travelling for over 50 days, I was quoted nearly £1,000 for single-trip cover. Through my travel business, I contacted one of our insurance partners and was shocked to secure a quote for just £187—a massive £800 saving! Travel insurance costs should never stop us from taking a well-deserved break. After the challenges of cancer, we all deserve to enjoy life again, and I’m committed to helping others affected by cancer find affordable travel solutions.
Looking ahead, 2025 is full of promise, and I couldn’t be more excited. Life after cancer is different, and I’ve had to adapt in many ways. But I remain optimistic, smiling every day and embracing the new opportunities that have come my way.
To those of you still undergoing treatment, I send you my warmest hugs and encouragement. Stay strong and keep believing—things do get better. I’m living proof that there is life after cancer, and it can be beautiful.
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