A woman from Nottinghamshire has shared her remarkable journey of discovering breast cancer, an outcome she attributes to her recent weight loss facilitated by the injection Mounjaro. Rebecca Combellack, 37, was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in May 2025, after noticing a lump in her breast which became detectable following her weight loss of over two stone. Her story highlights not only her personal battle but also the potential implications of weight-loss treatments in identifying serious health issues.
A Life-Changing Discovery
In April 2025, Rebecca began using Mounjaro, a medication designed to suppress appetite by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which promotes a feeling of fullness. After weighing herself during a skiing holiday, she realised she weighed the same as her husband, prompting her to take action regarding her weight. Within two months, she shed more than 12.7 kg. This weight loss ultimately led to the discovery of a small lump deep in her rib cage that she hadn’t felt prior due to her heavier weight.
“It was a shocking turn of events,” Rebecca recounted. “I went from feeling on top of the world after losing weight to being faced with the reality of cancer. Hearing those three words really does shake you up. It just felt like a bad dream.”
Early Detection and Treatment
Rebecca’s diagnosis of oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer came after a series of scans and biopsies. This type of cancer accounts for approximately 80% of breast cancer cases, characterised by tumours that grow in response to oestrogen. Doctors informed her that her weight loss had played a crucial role in her early detection, as being heavier might have masked the lump.
“The cancer was fast-acting, and if I’d left it even six months, the outcome could have been much worse,” she stated, reflecting on the gravity of her situation. Following her diagnosis, Rebecca underwent surgery to remove the lump and began chemotherapy in August 2025.
Embracing Life Amidst Challenges
Despite the hardships she faces, Rebecca has chosen to maintain a positive outlook, viewing her cancer journey as yet another challenge in her life. She continues to manage her design and marketing business while undergoing treatment. “I’ve just tried to see this as another challenge that’s added to our normal life,” she explained. “We’ve continued with our hobbies and family life as usual.”
Rebecca’s husband, Richard Combellack, 44, has also been a pillar of support. The couple has turned their efforts towards charity work, aiming to raise awareness and funds for organisations like Breast Cancer Now and CoppaFeel. They recently organised a charity ice hockey match that garnered an impressive 2,000 ticket sales, raising significant funds for cancer research and support.
“It’s a horrible thing at Bex’s young age to have to go through, so if we can stop one single person from facing this journey, then it’s a win for us,” Richard said.
The Road Ahead
Rebecca now faces the prospect of lifelong hormone therapy, which will induce early menopause and affect their plans for future children. “The menopause will have to be cold turkey because I can’t have any hormones like HRT,” Richard explained. Despite the difficulties ahead, Rebecca remains determined to stay positive, drawing strength from her humour and her mission to help others.
“I’ve just got to carry on laughing,” she said. “It’s how we get through.”
Why it Matters
Rebecca Combellack’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of weight management and early detection in cancer treatment. Her experience sheds light on how weight-loss medications can inadvertently lead to the discovery of serious health issues, potentially saving lives. By sharing her journey, Rebecca not only raises awareness about the realities of breast cancer but also inspires others to remain vigilant about their health, emphasising that positive action can emerge from even the toughest circumstances.