Q: How did you find out you had breast cancer?

I found the lump myself after experiencing an electric shock type pain in my breast, I had also been experiencing quite severe fatigue. It was only when I felt the electric shock type pain in the shower one day that it prompted me to check the area. That's when I found the lump - it felt like half the size of a boiled egg split in half. Like many others probably do, I put it down to my period and hormone fluctuations but after a few weeks I went to see my GP. I was referred for a scan and a week later, in May 2017 I was diagnosed age 31 with grade 3, stage 2 breast cancer in one area.

Q: What type of surgery did you have?

In 2017 after my first diagnosis, I underwent lymph node clearance and a lumpectomy. I was diagnosed again 2019. It was difficult being diagnosed for a second time, knowing I had to go through it all again. This time I had a more extensive mastectomy with DIEP flap reconstruction using tissue from my stomach. While the lumpectomy had a quicker recovery time, I was up and about within a week, the 2019 surgery was longer and more challenging. Unfortunately, I faced wound issues that led to frustration and a delay in starting chemotherapy. But I did get through it!

I was devastated to have been diagnosed so young but thankfully with all the therapies – chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and my surgeries I‘m now in remission for the second time.

Q: Do you have any tips for those going through treatment, is there anything that helped you?

For my lumpectomy I was home almost immediately but for longer hospital stays I would say pack your ear plugs, slippers, hair oil and a brush (the back of my head got very tangled due to laying so much!), as well as skin and lip care products. My favourite snacks, books and an iPad loaded with movies was a good way to combat the boredom. I also took a diary to write down my experience.

Q: Do you have any advice for during recovery?

Make sure you do the exercises the hospital give to you - don’t neglect them!

Dressing post-surgery was also challenging, but finding outfits like front-zip hoodies and stretchy tops was a lifesaver. I focused on clothing that allowed me to avoid excessive stretching and lifting of my arms.

Its understandable that you might feel self-conscious about your body being different but embrace your uniqueness, your body tells a story that is exclusively yours. Focus on what makes you confident and surround yourself with supportive people who appreciate you for who you are.

Q: What motivates you to be an advocate for breast cancer awareness?

Since my diagnosis I do what I can to be an advocate for breast cancer awareness.

One of my main drivers is my age and cultural background. I felt super lost at the start of my diagnosis having no one to talk to. I didn't have anyone to look up to in my community and also didn’t know anyone my age who had gone through breast cancer. It was this loneliness that motivated me. I hated that feeling and so I am always available to listen to people and answer messages.

I’ve answered hundreds of questions over the last few years on my Instagram account and it feels good to be able to help.

Q: How did you feel modelling for Nicola Jane?

As a London born Turkish Cypriot, I felt proud to be able to represent people in my community - being from a marginalized ethnic group we don’t see much representation, so my first feeling was pride. I loved how everyone at Nicola Jane worked together as a family and I was cheered on throughout the photoshoot. The experience as a whole was incredible and I’d love to be able to do it again one day. 

There is literally something for everyone from the Nicola Jane collection and the quality is definitely there. Each piece has been thought about and has us and our dignity in mind. Nicola Jane is a thoughtful brand and I’ve seen that even with it's people. Every single piece was comfortable and that is super key, especially post-surgery.