Being part of the Breast Cancer Now team and encouraging the runners was incredibly meaningful

Can you tell us about your experience of breast cancer?

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis at any age is devastating. I was 39, with so many plans, especially celebrating my 40th birthday in Bali with friends. My mind was full of questions: Why me? Why now? I felt heartbroken, angry, and overwhelmed.

A few weeks later I began treatment. I underwent six cycles of chemotherapy, and it was the hardest part of my journey. The treatment took so much from me: my strength, my independence, and even my identity. My mother came from Zimbabwe to care for me. She was my strength. There were moments I wanted to give up, but her words and love carried me through.

Next came 21 exhausting sessions of radiotherapy, followed by 18 cycles of immunotherapy and hormonal therapy. On 3 January 2025 I rang the bell for the last time, marking the end of my treatment. It was a deeply emotional moment filled with gratitude. A couple of weeks later I was told I was cancer free.

I never thought I’d say this, but I’m grateful for the journey. Cancer took so much from me: time, strength, and parts of myself, but it also gave me a new perspective on life. I now understand that waking up each day is a true blessing. Our health is our greatest wealth.

Why did you decide to volunteer?

Community work and giving back have always been part of who I am. Volunteering with Breast Cancer Now at the Royal Parks Half Marathon meant a lot to me because it’s a cause very close to my heart.

I needed that connection with others who understood resilience, strength, and hope. And I wanted to be part of something that brought people together for such an important cause.

Could you tell us about your experience on the day?

The experience on the day was absolutely amazing. The atmosphere was electric, full of excitement, encouragement and unity. I had so much fun cheering on the runners and interacting with the crowd. Especially when a runner from Breast Cancer Now was passing, we would scream our lungs out to show support.

The staff and my fellow volunteers were very supportive, welcoming and organised, which made the whole experience enjoyable and memorable. The staff treated us so well – offering snacks and good hospitality. It was as if they’d known everyone since way before the event, even though it was their first time meeting most of us.

What did you enjoy most about volunteering?

I most enjoyed supporting and encouraging the runners through cheering. Watching people push through challenges with determination and strength was emotional and inspiring. I also loved the atmosphere: it was filled with positivity, hope, and togetherness.

The feeling of giving back to the community and being connected to others on similar journeys meant so much to me. Meeting other volunteers and staff who shared the same passion for helping others also made the experience special.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering?

I would definitely encourage anyone thinking about volunteering to give it a try. It’s a rewarding and fulfilling experience that allows you to meet amazing people, support an important cause, and make a positive difference in the community.

The overall experience is uplifting, inspiring and memorable. You leave feeling proud, connected, and grateful to have been part of something so meaningful.