Breast cancer stories to inspire others

Posted by Claire Boote, on October 23, 2020.

Estimated reading time: 1 minute(s)

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Cancer can be a lonely time for anyone but when you’re isolating from friends and family it’s even harder. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month we asked women to share their own experiences of breast cancer. We hope these stories inspire others to look out for their own health, stay strong, and know they are not alone.

We are proud to be collaborating with Future Dreams, a charity dedicated to raising funds for awareness and research into breast cancer, and to support women through their breast cancer journey. Together we’re supporting women through tough times.

Royce first teamed up with the charity during lockdown – a difficult time for us all, but particularly hard for those dealing with major illnesses such as breast cancer. Thousands of women who have had breast surgery or treatment in the past four months have been given a Future Dreams care package, some of which included a specialist post-surgery bra from the Royce Lingerie range.

Here are some compelling stories from women who received a Future Dreams care package or Royce bra.

Emily Frost, 30, lives in Farnham, Surrey

“I can confidently say that I feel like I am a much stronger and braver person because of cancer. Always get ANY concerns checked and then double checked. You have to be your own advocate. Trust the NHS but realise mistakes can be made, as is human nature, so you have to really fight for answers if you are worried. You are not alone in this fight”

Jacqueline Bassaragh, 53, lives in London

“When you are given the devastating news that you have cancer it is a shock and very frightening.  Allow your family and friends to help you however they can. You are not alone.

I was referred to Black Women Rising in October 2018 and it was a lifeline in supporting my emotional needs. It helped me to navigate through my breast cancer journey which, I have accepted, does not end after surgery and treatment.”

Laura Ainsworth, 36, lives in Breaston, Derbyshire

“Never take life for granted and appreciate everything! The NHS are amazing, and I feel so lucky that I’ve been able to have treatment so quickly, as I know in some areas treatments have been delayed.

 For those recently diagnosed or concerned about their breasts, Laura adds: “Go to your GP! Early diagnosis is key and NO-ONE is immune to breast cancer.”

Michelle Teale, 59, lives in Leicester

“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.”

Nevo Burrell, 53, lives in Walthamstow, London

“I have met some great people, fellow cancer survivors, and new opportunities have opened up for me. My mindset is different, in the sense that I have weaned myself off overthinking!

I am now helping women (and possibly men in the future), who are living with cancer, to regain confidence and heal quicker from the emotional impact of this life-threatening or life-changing illness.”

Vivienne Stockill, 65, lives in Wellesbourne, Warwickshire

“When I needed a new bra post-surgery, and was unable to visit a shop because of the Covid restrictions, the customer care team at Royce talked me through the best fit and size for my now unbalanced breasts. They were unfailingly patient with me. The bras that I ordered were not only a great fit, but were also pretty – and that was a great bonus when I was feeling fairly under-confident about my appearance.”

Shevelle Copeland-Kelly, 30, lives in Crystal Palace, London

“Never underestimate yourself. You know your body best so, if you feel concerned, go and check it out and don’t stop until you get the right response.

Know that you are in charge of your own health. The journey can be extremely lonely and tough at times, but there are many services out there to support you, you just have to have an open mind and be willing to engage, because you are definitely not alone on this journey.”

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