Katy's story
I found a lump in my breast near the end of 2021. At the time, I didn’t think much of it—I assumed it was a benign cyst but decided to get it checked to put my mind at rest. My GP acted quickly, referring me to the breast care team.
After a mammogram, I was sent straight for an ultrasound, and in that moment, I knew something was wrong. The nurses exchanged a worried look before telling me I’d have to wait two weeks for confirmation. The atmosphere shifted—I just knew this wasn’t going to be straightforward. When I asked their thoughts based on the size and shape of the lump, they said it was highly likely to be cancer but needed to confirm. The next two weeks were a blur. Then, I got the call—come to the hospital today.
I knew what was coming, but I still clung to hope.
The diagnosis: stage two, triple-positive breast cancer, grade 3. A tumour powered by a ‘fertiliser’ that made it grow aggressively. At first, I couldn’t process the words. I naively thought it might just be a few rogue cells that could be quickly removed. Then the nurse told me I’d need chemotherapy as soon as possible, that I’d lose my hair, and that surgery and radiotherapy would follow.
Telling my kids and family was the hardest part, but once I wrapped my head around it, I found strength in taking control. Chemo was brutal, but I knew it had to be done. My health became essential, I couldn’t contemplate leaving my kids. From those days onwards I concentrated on my health and getting better. From food, exercise, toxins, stress, family, work – the order of priorities shifted.
I know I’m one of the lucky ones. My tumour was less than a millimetre away from spreading. If I had ignored that lump, my prognosis could have been very different. Cancer gave me a new perspective on life—how fragile it is, how precious time is.
Since recovering, I’ve thrown myself into my business, ecojiko, a sustainable homeware brand. Through it, I’m determined to help others detect cancer early. Our Breast Cancer Awareness range—featuring ‘boob’ brushes and cloths—serves as a daily reminder to check for lumps and bumps. We also donate a portion of every sale to CancerCare, the charity that supported my family and me through treatment and recovery. Find out more about my story on my Instagram account.
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