Research gives mum hope after breast lump in pregnancy
During one of the most special times in her life, paramedic Sarah Husband was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer in October 2024.
Two years on, she shares her story as part of World Cancer Research Fund’s 112 Skips a Day in October challenge, which is fundraising for new treatments and improved advice and support for breast cancer patients.
Throughout her pregnancy, Sarah experienced breathlessness, chest discomfort and extreme fatigue alongside intermittent burning pain over a lump in her right breast – which she discovered at around six months pregnant.
Initially believing that her symptoms were pregnancy-related breast changes or a blocked milk duct, Sarah followed the advice she was given and tried warm compresses, but the lump did not go away.
Sarah explained:
“As time passed, I developed a sinking feeling that it may be something more serious, which prompted me to seek further investigation.”
After a biopsy in her third trimester, Sarah received her breast cancer diagnosis just one week after the birth of her son, Ted.
“I should have been soaking up those precious newborn moments, but the joy of becoming a mum again was suddenly overshadowed by fear.”
Her treatment began with six rounds of pre-operative chemotherapy, which shrunk the tumour “dramatically” but did not leave Sarah cancer-free.
“There were days I felt exhausted, sick and frightened, but motherhood doesn’t stop because you have cancer. My boys gave me a reason to keep putting one foot in front of the other.”
Further treatment included a skin-sparing mastectomy and lymph node removal, together with a tissue expander to begin the long journey towards breast reconstruction.
“As a paramedic, I was used to caring for others, but overnight I became the patient. My focus shifted from looking after people in their darkest moments to wondering whether I would live long enough to watch my own children grow up.”
Her treatment concluded with 14 rounds of post-operative chemotherapy and five high-dose radiotherapy treatments, followed by a targeted drug to reduce the risk of her cancer returning.
Alongside the side effects of treatment, Sarah describes her inability to breastfeed as one of the “quiet heartbreaks” that stays with her today.
“Like so many mothers, I imagined feeding my baby, comforting him and creating that bond. Instead, cancer took the choice away before I even had the chance. I remember crying for several nights as my milk came in and gradually dried up, knowing I could no longer feed my newborn.”
Today, Sarah’s scans are showing no evidence of disease (NED), which she credits to decades of research and the generosity of people who fundraise for it.
“Cancer research gives me hope. Every breakthrough represents another family who may have more birthdays together, more first days at school and more cuddles.”
Since her diagnosis, Sarah has made mindful changes to her diet, such as eating a wider variety of fruit and vegetables to support her health and help protect against weight gain, overweight and obesity – which are linked to at least 13 types of cancer.
“After experiencing something over which I have such little control, making thoughtful changes helps me feel like I’m doing everything in my power to support my recovery.”
Evidence from World Cancer Research Fund suggests that physical activity can help reduce risk of three common cancers: colon, post-menopausal breast cancer and womb cancer.
By signing up to 112 Skips a Day in October, you can help mothers like Sarah create more memories with their children and take steps to reduce your own cancer risk.
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This is your FINAL CALL to join our August challenge! ⭐ Receive a FREE T-shirt and a shiny medal when you reach the target. Click the link in our bio. #Friendship #Exercise #Running
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When @jamesvincentradford's mum, Julia, was diagnosed with bowel cancer, she was told she had months to live. She died just six days later. Julia is one of three women in James' life that cancer has taken from him. Rather than letting grief define him, James chose to honour their memories... by fundraising for cancer prevention research. 🔬 His story is a powerful reminder that while we can't change the past, we can help create a better future for others. Every challenge taken on in support of World Cancer Research Fund gives people, like James, more time with their loved ones. From the @londonmarathon to @ultrachallenges, we have opportunities that truly make a difference! All on our website. 🪂 #Fundraising #Research #Charity
How have you turned grief into hope in your life?
James’ mum, Julia, was told she had months to live after being diagnosed with bowel cancer. Just six days later, she was gone.
Julia is one of three women in James’ life that cancer has stolen from him.
That’s why he... fundraises for cancer prevention research in their names 🏃♂️
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What are your plans in August? ☀️
Days at the park. Family holidays. BBQs with friends.
For many mums, August is about creating memories. But for mums like Meera, breast cancer changes everything.
This summer, you can offer hope to families facing cancer by ...taking on our Jog 50 Miles in August challenge.
Every mile you complete will help fund vital research to improve treatments, advice and support for breast cancer patients.
Whether you jog before the children wake up, squeeze in a lunchtime run or head out with friends after bedtime… everything counts.
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Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and the second-most common cancer globally. Register now for our 'Jog 50’ miles challenge on our website in August and help fund the science that changes what happens next for thousands of women facing a diagnosis. You’ll be more encouraged... to complete it with a friend by your side! Walking, jogging, running - it all counts. 😄 #Friendship #BodyImage #Silly
