Helen King, a vibrant mum-of-four from Cowbridge, received a life-changing diagnosis that she never expected. At 43, despite being fit, healthy, and a non-smoker, she had her first mastectomy, followed by a second one 18 months later. Now free from breast cancer, Helen is speaking out to encourage women everywhere, especially those under 50, to prioritise their health by getting checked.
The statistics are alarming: 36% of women hesitate to go for screenings if they find a lump. For Helen, the decision to get checked proved vital. “The sooner you’re checked, the sooner it’s sorted. Don’t delay,” she warns. She reflects on how women, often bogged down with caring for others, might neglect their own health. A dinner with a GP friend, who had also discovered a lump, urged Helen to seek a diagnosis.
While on holiday, Helen discovered a lump but dismissed it as muscle from workouts. It wasn’t until the pain became noticeable that she decided to consult with the compassionate and skilled breast surgeon, Zoe Barber. The quick succession of a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy confirmed her worst fear: cancer.
Thanks to early diagnosis, swift surgery, and chemotherapy, Helen made a full recovery and underwent a successful double breast reconstruction. The experience reshaped her outlook on health, underscoring the importance of addressing concerns immediately.
Helen’s story is a crucial reminder: don’t ignore those warning signs and don’t wait to speak up. She credits her recovery to the exceptional care from her medical team and shares a heartfelt thanks to Zoe Barber, who supported her through thick and thin.
In Helen’s words: “The unknowing is terrifying.” Let’s break the stigma and make health checks a priority. If you find a lump, call your doctor and insist on an examination. Spare yourself the risk. Spread the message and save lives! #BreastCancerAwareness #HealthFirst #CheckYourself