Chelsey was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 at the age of 24, which is when she received her Little Lifts Chemotherapy Box. Her treatment consisted of 4 rounds of chemotherapy, a lumpectomy followed by a re-incision to clear margins, 3 rounds more chemotherapy and 25 rounds of radiotherapy.
18 months after finishing treatment Chelsey had a mammogram, which showed concerning results. She received a letter 2 days later requesting that she returned to hospital where a biopsy confirmed it was cancer and a local reccurrence. This all happened only ten days before her and her (now) husband’s wedding. In light of this the radiographer was able to give the results there and then, Chelsey said they were ‘so kind’. She followed on to say, ‘I was in shock and almost felt worse than the first time as I kind of knew what was coming. We only told our parents and my brother prior to the wedding to make sure it was a positive happy day about us both! Not about people feeling sorry about me having cancer again.’
Chelsey received her Little Lifts Box for chemotherapy treatment after her second diagnosis, she said: ‘Receiving this while going through chemo again meant the world and quite literally lifted me up. The amount of goodies I received was just overwhelming. I loved that the products were generally locally produced by smaller businesses and everything in there helped get me through chemo. There were things like flavoured oil, chilli flakes, sleep masks – all of which were just what I needed to add flavour to cooking and help me relax.’
Here’s what she said about Little Lifts ‘Little Lifts supported me in the darkest of times and quite literally gave me a BIG ‘little lift’. The team are the most kind and caring people I have had the honour of meeting. I will always give back to Little Lifts, but know I will forever be in debt to their kindness! I simply cannot thank you enough.’
Chelsey’s top tip! ‘You can do it, you learn so much about yourself and how strong you truly are to get to the other side. Make sure you’re always honest with your friends and family about how you feel and reach out if you do need help. You are not alone!’.
Chelsey has been an incredible supporter of our small but mighty charity. You may recognise her from the image above taken during a photoshoot for our website, which Chelsey volunteered to take part in. Her bold hot pink suit couldn’t be more fitting as it mirrors her bright and infectious personality.
Chelsey also just took part in our Fashion Show with John Lewis which was an incredible, empowering and moving evening. She even offered to speak about her experience part way through the show which was a big fear of hers. We are so proud and grateful.
Chelsey says ‘she does everything to give back’ and for that we would like to say the biggest thank you!
