I’ve raised over £30,000 as a volunteer, and this is just the beginning

When did you start volunteering?

Just 3 months after finishing my own breast cancer treatment, I started volunteering. I felt the need to give back, and volunteering with Breast Cancer Now felt like a natural step.

I remember so clearly my first experience fundraising. I first saw Breast Cancer Now’s pink bucket collections at London train stations. Something just clicked. I got in touch straight away, wanting to host my own, and the charity was amazing. They gave me everything I needed to get started.

How did your first bucket collection go?

I rounded up a group of friends and we stood in Bromley High Street in Kent. We were dressed head to toe in pink with pink buckets in hand. I was wearing a pink wig as my hair had just started to grow back - I felt like a new me.

It was a freezing cold day, but that didn’t stop us. Those 6 hours flew by. That evening, I counted out £1300 that we had raised. It wasn’t just a number; it felt like the beginning of something important.

I arranged for a large cheque with the fundraising total, which I presented at the charity head office, complete with a pink ribbon. While at the office, someone asked me if I’d be interested in taking on a new role as community fundraising leader for Bromley and the Southeast. Of course, my answer was a big yes.

I remember I had so many ideas running through my head on my train journey home. I couldn’t wait to get started.

At the time, I was working as an IT technical finance manager, so I had skills in project management and communication. Even with my demanding job, plus hospital appointments and new medication, volunteering quickly became a fulfilling part of my life.

What else have you been involved in?

Over the last 10 years, I’ve hosted Afternoon Teas, coffee mornings and an amazing pink party. I’ve arranged raffles, auctions and collaborated with local businesses to raise funds. I’ve also completed a half marathon and been involved in Tour de Law. As a Louder Voice, I raise awareness, support others and campaign for change.

Just under 3 years ago, I moved from London to a seaside village in Essex called Shoeburyness. I wanted to live the next chapter of my life by the sea and be nearer to my family, as I navigated long-term side effects of treatment. As soon as I moved, I knew I wanted to bring awareness to this beautiful village and continue my fundraising.

Since then, I’ve walked miles along the seafront in my Breast Cancer Now t-shirts and I’ve hosted a fundraising event at a beautiful cafe. I was also given a table at the local winter fayre where I sold items all donated by local residents, friends and businesses.

What support have you gotten?

All of this would never be possible without the support of other volunteers and friends. Since relocating, I’ve found a new passion for open-sea swimming and coastal walking. I’ve made new friends at these groups, who also support my fundraising.

Recently, 2 friends I’ve made since moving volunteered at one of my events, along with other friends and family. My heart is always filled with gratitude and joy when people come along to support me.

What are you up to now?

I recently took on a new role as an information point volunteer at my local hospital. I manage their publications and support another local hospital in their coffee mornings for primary breast cancer patients. These coffee mornings aren’t just about sharing information about all the amazing things Breast Cancer Now does. They’re a place where people can find real emotional support and understanding.

I was also recently contacted by a local film production company during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I did a photoshoot to show my scars, which was a very cathartic experience for me.

What do you enjoy about volunteering?

What I truly love about volunteering is the connection I feel with others. Being able to offer support no matter what stage they’re at, using my voice to speak up, being there to listen, and raising vital funds - it's all incredibly rewarding.

I’m so proud of what I’ve been able to bring to my new community. Like I said 10 years ago, this is just the beginning. My total raised so far is over £30,000, and it will continue to rise.

Being a volunteer with Breast Cancer Now is like being part of supportive family and a dedicated team, all making a real difference. And I’m so proud to be an ambassador and advocate for the charity.