Lesley's Breast Cancer Story

Lesley’s Breast Cancer Story

Say hello to wonderful Lesley who received her Little Lifts Radiotherapy Box via our online shop.

Lesley’s breast cancer diagnosis and treatment

In February 2024 Lesley attended a routine mammogram where she was told she did not have breast cancer. In June 2024 she received a letter asking her to return for another mammogram and biopsy. This was for an AI study being trialed within the Newcastle Trust which identified potential calcification. From there Lesley was diagnosed with stage 1 invasive Ductal Carcinoma in Situ. She received a lumpectomy and radiotherapy treatment.

‘Breast Cancer is extremely prominent within my family, as both my sisters were diagnosed before myself. We have since undergone genetic testing and are awaiting further investigation.’

After receiving her breast cancer gift Box Lesley said:

‘It was such a lovely surprise, as I didn’t even realise a parcel was due to be delivered! It certainly made my day, if not week! I felt very lucky to have been the recipient of such a generous and well thought out Box.

It was packaged beautifully and you could tell a lot of thought had gone into every product. In particular, I really liked the metal free deodorant, as I didn’t even realise the benefits of this during radiotherapy. The moisturiser has been so soothing after my lumpectomy and will continue to use during my recovery. The chocolate buttons were a huge hit and didn’t last very long! The heated eye mask was so calming and I used it alongside the pulse point before sleeping. All of the products were so lovely!!’

More about Lesley:

‘I am 56 years young! I retired in 2022, after 20+ years in teaching. I am originally from Newcastle, but lived in Yorkshire for 20 years due to my husband’s job. Following my retirement, we decided to move back home to be near family. I am extremely close to my family, and have the most amazing husband and daughter. I enjoy cooking, gardening, walking (weather dependent!), and any place that serves a flat white and cream scone!’

Lesley’s Top Tips for breast cancer:

Remember that you’re not alone. Whether it’s family/friends/cancer support group, there are people there who can support you. For me, it really helped taking my husband and daughter to all my appointments, as it took my mind off the situation and meant there was someone else there to help take it all in.
Try find a hobby or something that lifts your spirits. For me, I have got into cooking more, due to me spending more time in the house recuperating, so it has been an activity that my daughter and I have done together. As I have regained my strength, this has involved regular shopping and coffee trips – just small adventures each day that give you something to look forward to!
Try and get some exercise everyday, or at least fresh air. I found it really helpful to follow the exercises guide given to me by the breast cancer nurse and tried to do a small walk everyday. I really think this not only aided my recovery and helped get my strength back, but was so beneficial for my mental wellbeing.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and experience with others, helping to spread support and kindness. Your kind words about your your Little Lifts Gift Box mean so much to us!

We appreciate you helping us to spread the Little Lifts love to people affected by breast cancer.