Mince pie crumbs alerted Walsall woman to breast cancer

Julie Pickering wants people to be aware that anyone can have breast cancer

A woman says she realised she had breast cancer after patting mince pie crumbs off her chest.

Julie Pickering discovered a lump after clearing crumbs from the pastry she had secretly eaten before an evening meal.

Now, following treatment, the 39-year-old from Walsall is classed as having "no evidence of disease".

She is planning to run a half marathon to raise funds for a breast cancer charity.

"Breast cancer can happen to anyone. Young or old, healthy, or unhealthy. I was young when I was diagnosed, and I was fit and healthy. Cancer does not discriminate," she said.

'Forever grateful'

The mother of two was diagnosed with grade three triple negative breast cancer in January.

Following chemotherapy, she chose to have a double mastectomy with implant reconstruction, and is urging other people to check themselves for signs of the disease.

"Little did I know I had an aggressive form and if it wasn't for the crumbs off the mince pie, it could have been a different situation today," said Julie.

The college lecturer decided cancer was not going to control her life and was able to continue working around chemotherapy, thanks to the support of many people.

"From my colleagues, to the staff at Walsall Healthcare who are true angels in a uniform, I will forever be grateful."

'Journey many identify with'

Julie was supported before and after surgery by Jayne Kanwar, lead breast care nurse at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust.

"We're grateful to Julie for sharing her story - not everyone feels able to and her journey is one that many women will identify with.

"She is a busy lady with a young family and a demanding job and I think her story reminds us of the impact that such a diagnosis can have on so many aspects of someone's life."

Julie is planning to run the London Landmarks half marathon in April to raise funds for charity CoppaFeel!, which encourages young people to check for signs of breast cancer.