Helen Christopher, a devoted mum from Oxford, bravely shares her heartbreaking journey and important message. Initially dismissing the stabbing pain in her breast during breastfeeding as mastitis, Helen delayed visiting the GP, fearing judgement for nursing her three-year-old son, Benji. But the reality was far more daunting – it was stage three breast cancer.
In July 2024, an ultrasound confirmed the devastating diagnosis, turning her world upside down. Helen, a mother of two, underwent a mastectomy followed by chemotherapy, facing every parent’s worst fear: not being there for her children, Rowan, 10, and Benji, 4.
In January 2025, after initial treatment, Helen received the crushing news that her cancer had returned. Transitioning to a palliative care approach was a tough pill to swallow but Helen remains determined to fight for additional precious time with her family.
Since August, she has been receiving palliative care in the UK and opted for private treatment in Germany, hoping immunotherapy could keep her cancer at bay. These treatments, alongside low-dose radiotherapy, have brought her hope, with signs of almost complete remission.
Her journey highlights the critical need for timely medical consultation, and she urges others not to dismiss health concerns due to fear of judgement or blame. Helen’s remarkable strength is now channeled into raising £16,000 for ongoing treatment that gives her a chance to create more memories with her loved ones.
Helen says, “When cancer comes back, it’s no longer about curing – it’s about living. It’s a tough reality when you have two young children.”
Support Helen’s battle and help her stay with her family longer by donating to her fundraiser: [GoFundMe link]. Every contribution counts in her fight for more moments with those she loves. Together, let’s spread awareness and empathy, breaking stigma around extended breastfeeding and empowering those on similar journeys.