Waterlooville woman, 27, shares tips and advice after being diagnosed with breast cancer on her birthday

Waterlooville resident Katrina chose not to dwell on why this had happened, but instead has channelled her energy into raising awareness of the disease.

She has created TikTok videos educating people on how to check for signs of breast cancer, and given an insight into her life as she navigates hospital appointments and operations.

Katrina received her diagnosis on her birthday on January 14, after noticing some changes which she visited her doctor about.

Katrina, a sales manager at Checkatrade, said: ‘I had in the back of my mind it’s not going to be anything because I’m young and there’s nothing of it in my family. I genuinely didn’t think it would be possible.

‘There are definitely down days and moments where I can’t even put my hair up. I can sit here and question why this has happened to me but it actually uses more energy feeling like that.

‘I already feel stronger because I have learned a lot about myself. It’s been a really interesting journey and learning curve for myself.’

In the two months since her Stage 0 diagnosis, Katrina has received plenty of tests alongside two operations to remove the lumps and reconstruct the tissue.

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She created a TikTok video series on what to look out for and how to check for breast cancer, as well as beginning to design mastectomy-friendly swimwear for her business Tomia Swim.

Katrina said: ‘Sharing my story has made me feel better, it’s been really positive.

‘It’s been a really tough journey but you have just got to focus on the good parts and the difference you can make.’

Her positive attitude and perseverance has inspired three of her friends to take on a 50km walk from her favourite place, Queen Elizabeth Country Park, to her mum’s home in Yapton, West Sussex.

Chris Wagstaff, Alfie Thomas and Josh Williams decided to take on this challenge for charity Coppafeel in honour of Katrina’s battle with the illness.

The trio have smashed their fundraising target of £1,000, and have already collected more than £3,300 before the walk has even taken place.

Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/50kinaday2021 to read more about the challenge and to donate.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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