Wendy
‘I continue to live with my motto “all will be well”’
Wendy Jackson was diagnosed with ER+ breast cancer in 2015 at the age of 45. Nearly five years after her primary diagnosis, she was diagnosed with stage four, secondary breast cancer. Wendy now lives with treatable but not curable cancer. Despite her diagnosis, she lives with the motto that “all will be well”.
In 2019, Wendy signed up as one of our original BooBees. The initial BooBee campaign, Breastfest, saw 100 women, affectionately known as BooBees, who had been affected by breast cancer join together to spread awareness and fundraise for a future without breast cancer.
We are delighted that Wendy has once again signed up as a BooBee Ambassador as part of our newest, vitally important drive - BooBee’s Big Campaign. Wendy is keen to continue the important work that was started in 2019.
Wendy has very kindly shared her breast cancer journey with us and explained why she has once again come on board as a BooBee in support of Prevent Breast Cancer.
Can you tell us a bit about your diagnosis?
I was diagnosed in 2015 at the age of 45 with ER+ breast cancer. I had the whole cancer experience in regard to treatment, including radical mastectomy, hormonal medication, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, with a few unexpected surprises thrown in.
I returned to work after 18 months to my previous role as a community mental health nurse. I continued to receive regular checks. However, for a while I was experiencing a pain in my collar bone. An ultrasound scan did not show any cause for concern.
Due to a persistent pain in my collar bone, I contacted my breast consultant for further investigation. Four years and eleven months after my primary diagnosis, I became a member of another elite club - stage four, secondary breast cancer.
Are you still undergoing treatment?
Yes - hormonal therapy, Denusunab injections and chemo tablets.
Can you tell us about your experience of being a BooBee?
I initially became a BooBee in 2019. The whole experience was amazing. I met so many new and inspirational friends. Memories were made that will never be forgotten.
What inspired you to take part in BooBee’s Big Campaign again this year?
To make others aware of the need to check your breasts.
To be part of a positive event that will raise funds and awareness, but also be fun!
To meet others in a similar situation.