Leana O

Why did you decide to join the NBCF team for Step Up to Breast Cancer?  

My decision stemmed from my own personal and current cancer experience. Last year I found a lump on my breast whilst in the shower. After a GP visit, I was very quickly rushed off for numerous tests to determine whether it was cancerous or benign. On my actual 42 birthday, I visited the GP for a follow up and it confirmed what I feared, positive. A terrible gift I will forever remember every year now. 

A few weeks later, I was officially diagnosed with Stage 3B breast cancer by the surgeon and oncologist. 

It hit home pretty quickly for me and the first few days were the most uncontrolled emotions I have ever experienced. Roller coaster was an understatement. 

I am happily married, a mum of two with an 8 year old son and a 5 year old daughter. I have a fantastic and big job - operations manager with a large team. I have a small family, an older sister who also is a full time carer for our mum who suffered a major stroke 15 years ago. My life is amazing, busy, but it is the life I have worked very hard to achieve, want and love. 

I received a text from one of my managers saying she had signed up to support my journey with the step up challenge. I had been sitting on my couch at home, having had a big emotional day. Attended my first chemotherapy session. I went to the hairdresser down the road with my five year old in tow, and had my long locks chopped off. It was going to fall out in the next few weeks regardless. And then received the text. I needed something to keep my thoughts in check. And keep me busy. I jumped on the link and signed up. I thought, "If she is doing it for me, what am I doing for myself?" And then it was game on.