Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October holds a deeply personal meaning for me — it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time for reflection, education, and unity in the global fight against breast cancer.

I am a BRCA2 gene carrier, which meant my risk of developing breast and other cancers was significantly higher than most. This knowledge shaped my journey in profound ways. Faced with uncertainty, I made a courageous decision to undergo preventative treatment, which included the removal of my breasts and ovaries. It was a life-altering choice, but one I own with pride and strength.

My scars are more than physical marks; they are symbols of survival and empowerment. They tell a story of resilience and of a woman who refuses to be defined by fear.

When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, the impact was overwhelming. The shock, the fear, the countless medical appointments; each day was a test of my resolve. But through the darkest moments, I discovered strength I hadn’t known I possessed, buoyed by the support of loved ones and medical experts.

Being a BRCA2 carrier added complexity to my journey but also clarity. It gave me the knowledge and power to make choices that prioritised my health and future. Undergoing preventative mastectomy and oophorectomy was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made. Yet, it was also one of the most empowering acts of self-care.

Last year, I had the humbling opportunity to be Miss October 2025 in a breast cancer charity calendar. This experience was far beyond the photoshoot. It was a platform to raise awareness, inspire others, and celebrate the unbreakable spirit of survivors everywhere. Sharing my image and story was a way to transform vulnerability into visibility, reminding others they are not alone.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a vital reminder that early detection saves lives and awareness changes outcomes. If you have a family history or genetic risk, please talk openly with your healthcare provider about testing and preventative options. Knowledge is power.

To every person touched by breast cancer, whether you are currently fighting, have survived, or support someone on the journey, you are not alone. Your strength and courage inspire us all.

My journey has taught me to live boldly and proudly. I wear my scars with dignity, as tokens of a battle fought and won. This October, I stand with you, strong, scarred, hopeful.