Earlier this year, Louise Butcher ran a virtual London Marathon topless to raise awareness of Lobular Breast Cancer and to remove the stigma of mastectomy scars.
Louise was diagnosed with Lobular in Spring of 2022 despite having had a clear mammogram only three weeks before.
After visiting her GP with concern about a small thickening in her left breast, Louise was sent to the breast clinic more for peace of mind, rather than due to any concerns by her doctor.
Both were surprised when she was diagnosed with multi-focal Lobular Breast Cancer that was seen on ultrasound. Following surgery, it was discovered to be a 5cm tumour very close to her chest wall.
“One of the reasons I did this was to bring Lobular out in the open. I just couldn’t believe how all the ladies I speak to have never heard of it, despite it being the 2nd most common type of Breast Cancer,” says Louise.
As women with lobular are more inclined to have a mastectomy, Louise also wanted to raise awareness of mastectomy scars, leading to her running the marathon topless.
Her challenge and story have been picked up by regional and national news. It is fantastic to see Lobular receiving such wide coverage and appearing in mainstream news to spread information.
“I set off Sunday morning to do a job and I feel proud I managed to achieve it.” We all at LBCUK want to say a huge congratulations and thank you to Louise and good luck with plans for next year.
You can read more about Louise’s story on the DevonLive website.