Helen Driver, a 54-year-old Data Officer from West Norfolk, will be taking part in this year’s Royal Parks Half Marathon, presented by Royal Bank of Canada, to raise money for Breast Cancer Now after an ‘unusual’ sensation following a routine run resulted in a shocking breast cancer diagnosis.

Helen explains how, following a routine village 10k race in June last year, her breast began to feel ‘sore and almost bruised’. Though there was ‘no lump’, Helen knew something wasn’t quite right and headed to her local GP who immediately referred her to West Norfolk’s Breast Care Unit. Whilst there, Helen was left ‘completely numb’ after a doctor revealed she had breast cancer.

Following a race against time to ensure the mass in her breast caused her no serious harm, Helen underwent a complex surgery, the morning of which she was left feeling ‘lonely and totally bewildered’. Helen explains how she ‘kept waiting to just wake up and realise it was all a horrible nightmare, living in a constant state of disbelief and denial.’

After a series of lumpectomies and a bout of radiotherapy, Helen’s cancer nightmare was over and she was given the all clear, though she was left wondering how different things might have been had she not contacted her GP immediately after noticing a difference in her breasts.

Just a year later, Helen’s now on a mission to share her message with other women who may be scared to check their breasts for any signs of cancer, explaining that ‘although it’s a scary process, it’s absolutely vital that women do this regularly.’

Helen continues: “Checking yourself is strange, but it’s the best way to learn what normal feels like to you. That way, if something changes, you can get it checked quicker without needing to wait for a routine screening. Most lumps and bumps are nothing nasty, but getting them checked could save your life.”

Helen is now also raising money for Breast Cancer Now, the UK’s largest breast cancer charity, after the charity acted as a ‘vital crutch’ during her cancer journey:

“When there was nobody to call, I called Breast Cancer now. They were there for me, answered my questions and really helped me day after day. I just want to repay them for the way they treated me, so that’s why I’m raising as much money as I can ahead of the upcoming race.”

Since her diagnosis, Helen has forged a community of breast cancer survivors, who are able to get together to chat about their experience with people who have been through a similar ordeal.

Reflecting on her goals for the future, Helen said:

“I want to show people that a cancer diagnosis, at whatever time in your life, doesn’t need to change who you are as a person.”

“I want to spread the word on the importance of checking yourself for signs of breast cancer and continue to enjoy my life surrounded by my friends, family, and community of survivors.”

Expressing her excitement for race-day, Helen said:

“I’m so excited for this year’s race. I love the buzz of the day - the nerves, excitement, and fifty trips to the loo. I can’t wait!”

When asked what advice she would give to someone going through something similar, Helen said:

“I would tell them to never give up. Cancer does not mean you have to hide away and stop living. Slow down and listen to your body, but remain positive and do whatever makes you happy.”

To donate to Helen’s cause, please visit her fundraising page

Donate to Helen

Go back to Inspire