Emma Riley undertook a huge challenge of running 100 miles in October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She recently completed this amazing achievement, whilst undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer. In this blog, Emma discusses her motivations for taking on the challenge, and her breast cancer diagnosis.
EMMA RILEY’S STORY
In 2009, I lost my mum to secondary breast cancer following a 3-year battle. Since my mum passed away, I have always been vigilant of checking my breasts, but never did I ever imagine I would find a lump, or any change, or be diagnosed with breast cancer. I’m an active mum of three who exercises regularly and eats healthily. Just after turning 40, I noticed a change in my breast. I monitored it and decided I needed to go to the doctors. I was told to go back if it was still there in three weeks. I did go back, however it took me longer than three weeks to gain the courage. I know this was ridiculous and looking back it should not have happened as the outcome could have been so different. I was referred to The Nightingale Centre at Wythenshawe Hospital where I had a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsies taken. A week later I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I was booked in for a therapeutic mastopexy and SNB. My SNB came back clear and my oncotype score was low, for this reason I did not need chemotherapy and I am currently undergoing radiotherapy. I am also waiting for genetic testing.
WHY THIS CHALLENGE
I have been under the care of the Nightingale Centre in Manchester where I first became aware of Prevent Breast Cancer. I decided to take part in a 100 mile running challenge during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to give me a focus and help with my emotional health, whilst receiving treatment and raise money for a good cause.
WHY PREVENT BREAST CANCER
The values of Prevent Breast Cancer of Predict, Prevent, Protect stand out. So many people are diagnosed, but how many could have been prevented with vital research? The devastation you feel with a diagnosis I cannot explain, the fear I feel each day. Having a breast cancer free future would take this anxiety and worry away for thousands of people every year.
Emma has raised over £3000 to date on her private Facebook Fundraiser. If you would like to support her incredible efforts, you can make a donation on her JustGiving page.
About Prevent Breast Cancer
Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity entirely dedicated to the prediction and prevention of breast cancer – we’re committed to freeing the world from the disease altogether. Unlike many cancer charities, we’re focused on preventing, rather than curing. Promoting early diagnosis, screening and lifestyle changes, we believe we can stop the problem before it starts. And being situated at the only breast cancer prevention centre in the UK, we’re right at the front-line in the fight against the disease. Join us today and help us create a future free from breast cancer. If you have any questions or concerns, email us today.
About Prevent Breast Cancer
Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity entirely dedicated to the prediction and prevention of breast cancer – we’re committed to freeing the world from the disease altogether. Unlike many cancer charities, we’re focused on preventing, rather than curing. Promoting early diagnosis, screening and lifestyle changes, we believe we can stop the problem before it starts. And being situated at the only breast cancer prevention centre in the UK, we’re right at the front-line in the fight against the disease. Join us today and help us create a future free from breast cancer. If you have any questions or concerns, email us today.
