Clare

Clare was diagnosed with primary breast cancer in 2019. In 2023, she was told her breast cancer had spread and become incurable. She says being diagnosed with a life-limiting illness in her 20s changed everything.

What cancer were you diagnosed with? I was first diagnosed with primary breast cancer in 2019, and then received a Stage 4 incurable breast cancer diagnosis in 2023.

How old were you when you were diagnosed? I had just turned 25 at my initial diagnosis, and I was 29 when I received my secondary diagnosis.

What do you want people to know about your experience? I want people to know that living with Stage 4 Cancer is both incredibly challenging and surprisingly normal at times. It’s a balancing act between navigating treatments, side effects, and the emotional toll, while also trying to hold on to the pieces of everyday life that still matter—family, friends, work, and fun! It’s not about "fighting" in the way people might think; it’s about learning to coexist with the uncertainty and making the most of the time I have.

What does being a young person who’s had a cancer diagnosis mean to you? Being diagnosed with a life-limiting illness in my 20s has changed everything. It’s confronting mortality much earlier than expected and realising how many dreams and plans might go unfinished. But it also makes me cherish the present moment more deeply. I’ve learned to advocate for myself, navigate the healthcare system, and find my voice in a world that often focuses on cancer in older people. It means rethinking what "normal" looks like and accepting that my life is now on a different path than I imagined.

What does being part of a community of young people who have also experienced cancer meant to you? Being part of a community of young adults with cancer has been a lifeline. There’s a shared understanding that goes beyond words—knowing that others "get it" without having to explain every little detail is incredibly comforting. It’s a space where we can talk about the complexities of living with cancer, our fears for the future, and our hopes for the present. I’ve found strength in the connections and friendships I’ve made, knowing I’m not facing this alone.

How has Trekstock helped you thrive? Trekstock has provided a space for me to connect with others who are walking a similar path. Their support goes beyond just the medical side of things; it’s about helping me live well with cancer, through community events, wellness resources, and practical advice. They’ve helped me navigate the mental and physical challenges of cancer, offering a sense of empowerment and reminding me that I can still thrive, even in the midst of uncertainty.

What does living life alongside cancer mean to you? Living life alongside cancer means learning to live with both hope and acceptance. It’s about making room for the reality of my diagnosis, but not letting it define every part of who I am. It means celebrating the good days, accepting the hard ones, and finding purpose in the time I have. It’s a delicate balance between holding onto the things I love and embracing a new reality where life is unpredictable.

What do you wish you’d known about cancer before your diagnosis? I wish I’d known how many layers cancer adds to your life. It’s not just about treatments and hospitals—it’s the emotional, financial, and social ripple effects that can be overwhelming. I wish I’d known that it’s okay to allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling without guilt.

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