Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.

NEWS > Alumnae News > Stamping Out Breast Cancer, One Step at a Time

Stamping Out Breast Cancer, One Step at a Time

Charity worker Ria Patel, Class of 2006, is making a direct appeal to you, and all fellow alumnae, to back her fundraising mission for CoppaFeel, a breast charity cancer very close to her heart.

Please support me as I take on a personal challenge this September to help fundraise for CoppaFeel; a brilliant charity with the goal of giving everyone the best possible chance of surviving breast cancer. I think that's something we can all get behind.

In the UK Mammograms are offered on a regular basis to those who are over 50, but that doesn't mean that those under 50 don't get breast cancer. Unfortunately those who do are often unaware of signs or misdiagnosed. CoppaFeel focus on encouraging young people to get comfortable with checking their boobs and taking action if they notice any changes, while also working with the Government to raise awareness of breast cancer in young people.

The challenge involves five days/six nights of trekking and camping in the Scottish Highlands, covering close to 100km and crawling up several mountains, including the fourth highest mountain in the UK (Ben Lawers).

Although for some this probably doesn't seem that daunting, the last time I owned walking boots until yesterday, was back at LEH, a whole 16 years ago, whilst taking part in Bronze DofE. Although this didn't put me off walking entirely, it did make me realise the walks I enjoy involve ice-creams, chats and a warm bath and bed at the end of the day. So this will not only be a physical challenge for me but also a mental challenge. However, hopefully one I can take on with grace and integrity.

So, why am I putting myself through this?

In early 2018 my Mum was diagnosed with breast cancer and fortunately was able to catch it early on, helping reduce the treatment she needed and increasing chances of survival. However, despite mammogram reminders from the GP, it was only through the encouragement of her friend (who had also been recently diagnosed with breast cancer) that she opted to go for a check-up.

It was around this time I found the work CoppaFeel do and was amazed by their simple and empowering messages, to encourage people to check their boobs, rather than being scared to talk about them and scared to go for check-ups. Which is crazy given most of us know someone who has been affected by breast cancer.

Whilst Covid-19 has impacted all of our lives in different ways, for small(ish) charities like CoppaFeel (annual income of around £2 million, compared to Cancer Research's annual income of circa £670 million) it has had a huge impact on their funding. 

So here I am asking for your generosity, as I get ready to tackle the Scottish Highlands Trek, alongside others including Gi Fletcher and Emma Willis, to help CoppaFeel continue with the great work I believe they are doing.

To donate please click here: https://coppafeel.enthuse.com/pf/ria-patel-9da2a

To learn more about how to check your boobs please click here: https://self-checkout.coppafeel.org/home

Thanks in advance,
Ria xx
 

Similar stories

We were sad to hear that Penny Cooper (Nicholson), Class of 1970, passed away peacefully this month aged 71, surrounded by her family and loved ones. More...

As part of our celebration of Pride Month, we're delighted to invite all members of the Holles Pride Club, and any LGBTQ… More...

It’s only been a few months since you left, but we really miss you guys. Mrs Cole and Mr Tompsett are delighted to invit… More...

A new film about a forgotten chapter of women’s football, made by writer and director Rachel Ramsay, Class of 2005, pack… More...

The 2024 edition of the alumnae magazine Holles Connect is out now. It explores why 'Kindness Counts' for pupils and for… More...

Most read

We were sad to hear that Penny Cooper (Nicholson), Class of 1970, passed away peacefully this month aged 71, surrounded by her family and loved ones. More...

The 2024 edition of the alumnae magazine Holles Connect is out now. It explores why 'Kindness Counts' for pupils and former students alike and is pack… More...

Nicky Budd with Vicky Sayer and Clare Jansen, Class of 2016

We know that many alumnae will be just as sad as we are to learn that our former Director of Sport, Nicky Budd, passed away last month at the Royal Ho… More...

Travel Story Award

 

CONTACT US


Lady Eleanor Holles School
Hanworth Road
Hampton, TW13 3HF

0208 979 1601
alumnae@lehs.org.uk

LEGAL

This website is powered by
ToucanTech