As a Breast Cancer Voice, Natalie shapes our work as a charity. Our Breast Cancer Voices make sure that the experiences of people with breast cancer are at the centre of what we do. Natalie tells us what she’s been involved in as a Voice, and why it’s been so meaningful for her.
Tell us about yourself
I’m 41 years old, and I live in London with my husband, Alan, and our daughter, Poppy, who just turned 3.
I’ve spent the last 20 years working in financial services, mainly in sales. When I’m not working, Italy is a big passion of mine — I love the wine, food, and the stunning countryside. I also love staying active, particularly through weight training and running.
How did you get involved with Breast Cancer Now?
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023. After my diagnosis, my friends were eager to support me by raising funds. We wanted to support an organisation dedicated to breast cancer research and support, and my oncologist highly recommended Breast Cancer Now.
As I learned more about the charity, I realised it offered so much more than just research funding. The depth of information and the level of support Breast Cancer Now provides are truly outstanding.
The forum was especially valuable to me. It gave me a genuine sense of community and belonging at a time when I really needed it. Connecting with others going through something similar reminded me that I wasn’t alone on this journey.
Why did you join Breast Cancer Voices?
I always wanted to support others with breast cancer and to use my own journey to help make theirs easier. I want to be involved in projects that make positive change for people with breast cancer, and Voices lets me do that.
I first heard about a focus group aimed at improving the day-to-day care that breast cancer patients received, and I jumped at the opportunity. Since then, I’ve been involved in many projects, all with the aim of putting lived experience at the heart of breast cancer research and support.
What’s the most meaningful thing you’ve done as a Voice?
Soon after joining, I became a ‘Louder Voice’, so I get regular alerts about specific opportunities that fit with my interests and skills. I was invited to join the strategy steering group to help shape Breast Cancer Now’s new strategy for the next 5 years and make the vision of the charity a reality.
Throughout the strategy steering group project, I could draw on my personal experience to help guide, inform, and challenge the group, particularly in its focus on advocacy, research, and care. The passion, drive and determination of everyone involved were genuinely inspiring. It’s clear that Breast Cancer Now is committed to breaking down barriers and pushing for meaningful change. It wasn’t just impressive; it was deeply motivating.
What do you like about being a Breast Cancer Voice?
Being a Voice has meant the world to me. I’ve loved being part of the strategy steering group - it’s been incredibly rewarding. I’ve felt deeply proud and genuinely privileged to contribute.
During a time when I’ve sometimes felt completely adrift, this role has given me a renewed sense of purpose and a real personal achievement that I will always carry with me. At the heart of the Voices network is the hope that our work today will shape a better future. I’m doing this for my daughter’s generation and for everyone who may face this path.
What would you say to someone thinking about becoming a Voice?
This has definitely been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. What I love about it is that you can get involved as much or as little as you like.
Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some truly inspirational men and women, each with their own remarkable stories. It’s been an experience that’s not only opened my eyes but also given me a deep sense of accomplishment.
Use your voice for change
Our Voices network is made up of people whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer. If you want to draw on your experience to create positive change, join the network.