Pink October 2020 – Day 23

 

This is Carla:

 

“My name is Carla; I was diagnosed with triple positive breast cancer 2 years ago. I had chemotherapy followed by a mastectomy with immediate reconstruction, and I continue to take hormone therapy. I had excellent support from the staff at the Worcestershire Breast Unit which is set in such peaceful surroundings. I was able to choose from a range of therapies provided by the Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven charity and I had an evening of pamper by the charity Look Good, Feel Better. To help improve my fitness, I joined the walking group from the unit provided by Happy Feet, I completed a course of Pink Ribbon Pilates and more recently I had zoom sessions with Macmillan Move More. After I completed active treatment, I attended the Breast Cancer Now Moving Forward course, this led to me becoming a Someone Like Me volunteer. I provide telephone support to those with a similar diagnoses or treatment plan. I often hear ‘I thought that I was the only one!’ I am also a volunteer for the Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven helping out with fundraising events and as a member of the Last Friday Support Group. I’ve made so many lovely friends who are all there to support each other and who just ‘get it’! I was keen to give something back whether that is supporting the breast unit or by using my story to help others. Breast Cancer is not a club that you would willingly join but the friendship and volunteer work has given me a new perspective and direction. I appreciate life so much more and I no longer sweat the small stuff!”