Say hello to Lisa, who received her Little Lifts Chemotherapy Box via our Little Kindness Fund. Lisa posted a video of her opening her Little Lifts Box on her TikTok account (@mammastanley) and our little team were totally overwhelmed by the joy she expressed! Lisa’s lovely unboxing video made us feel like we were sitting alongside her. Her bright and cheery personality is totally infectious.
Her Tik Tok videos are a very raw document of her treatment and emotions. It is totally inspiring to see Lisa share her moments of vulnerability as well as her bright approach and outlook. Her diary captures treatment updates alongside day-to-day life, like getting out for a walk or meeting up with friends for a coffee. Her videos feel like you are sat with a friend having a catch up.
Lisa described what the impacts of cancer have been on her and her family: ‘I have an amazing husband, 3 great kids, Rosie (18) about to do A levels. Oscar (24) works as an animator, trying to save up to move out. Christopher (26) is getting married in August. I’ve got 2 dogs and 3 chickens, and lots of great friends and family. I was the organiser, the event planner, the “thing” finder, the problem solver. It’s been hard not being able to do that, hard for me and hard for friends and family.’
Lisa was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2021. She received radiotherapy and 2 operations (lumpectomy and lymph node removal) as part of her treatment and it appeared to be successful. However in August 2022, just before her birthday, she found another lump. Her breast cancer had come back.
In September Lisa had a mastectomy and started chemotherapy. Midway through, she developed an infection which required hospital treatment. As a result, her chemotherapy was paused while she battled the infection. She recently was taken off antibiotics meaning her chemotherapy could recommence.
‘My Little Lifts parcel will be such a big help in getting myself physically and emotionally able to restart this challenging treatment. My journey has been long and hard, your parcel really did brighten my day. Every item was delightful and perfect for making me feel lifted. It made a dark day lighter – it was waiting for me on return from the breast surgeon. I especially loved the MooGoo cream and the tote bag but really loved it all.’
Lisa shared with us some Top Tips for people experiencing treatment for breast cancer: ‘Listen to your body, rest when you need it. Walk each day outside, even if it’s a few metres. Join a support group – even if you think it’s not your thing.’
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Lisa. To watch Lisa’s video click here or to follow Lisa’s journey check out her TikTok @mammastanley
