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Breast Cancer Stories | Michelle Teale, 59
Posted by Claire Boote, on October 23, 2020.
Estimated reading time: 1 minute(s)
Michelle Teale, 59
Within just 10 months Michelle Teale went from primary to secondary ‘stage 4’ breast cancer. While treatable, the cancer is not curable, but equally not terminable.
As she fell asleep one night, Michelle hugged herself for warmth only to notice an unusually hard, large lump on her breast. Michelle woke her husband for his opinion. After confirming the lump Michelle made an appointment with her GP. Within the week, Michelle had received the diagnosis and announced to her husband: “We won first prize; it’s breast cancer”.
After eight rounds of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and, eventually, a mastectomy, Michelle bent down to pick up a bottle of water only to have a pain shoot through her leg. Michelle returned to hospital and was told that the cancer had spread through her pelvic cradle, ribs, spine and femur.
Michelle had dealt with her previous therapies, such as the mastectomy, knowing it was essential to saving her life. But her toughest moment stemmed from finding out the cancer had spread. Michelle had to relearn to walk subsequently losing her independence, a situation that impacted both her and her husband.
Lockdown impounded the strain on the couple with Michelle having to shield for 22 weeks. However, Michelle emerged in an joyous way by reuniting with her mother (a survivor of cancer) on Yorkshire Day in tremendous (and televised) style.
Despite the challenges, Michelle maintains a positive outlook: “Cancer has, in part, negatively impacted my relationship with my husband, but it has equally made us stronger as a couple. We are making the most of every day we get.
“As for me, I believe cancer has made me more tolerant. I’ve learned to listen more both sympathetically and for information that I can use moving forward.
As part of their collaboration with Future Dreams, Royce Lingerie gave Michelle a post-surgery bra to help her through her treatment. She adds, “I would also like to thank Royce Lingerie for their fantastic bra which is perfect underneath a t-shirt with my large prosthesis. Its fashionable design makes me feel great and balanced!”
As for advice to those recently diagnosed or concerned, Michelle says: “Regularly check your breasts and support yourself. You will know if something is abnormal, so never be frightened to check or get checked.
“I am a big believer in positivity and silver linings to take from this diagnosis, like my friends and the support groups. Grab hold of every positive you can and remember that you are not alone.”
