Vicki Poole, a 45-year-old mother of two, was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer in 2022 after experiencing a sharp pain in her right breast during a hot yoga session. Despite facing numerous challenges, including a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and heart complications, Vicki’s resilience and determination have been an inspiration to all.
Vicki’s journey began in December 2021 when she felt a persistent pain in her right breast during a yoga class. Initially, she thought it was related to the movement, but the pain persisted and eventually spread to her arm. In January 2022, Vicki visited her GP, who referred her to a one-stop breast cancer clinic for further tests.
After undergoing a series of scans and a biopsy, Vicki received the devastating news that she had lobular breast cancer, a type of cancer that affects the milk-producing glands of the breast. The scans revealed a 10cm by 4cm by 6cm tumour, as well as two suspicious lymph nodes in her armpit.
Vicki’s first thoughts were for her two young children, fearing that she might not be around to see them grow up. In April 2022, she underwent a mastectomy on her right breast, followed by chemotherapy, which triggered a heart arrhythmia that landed her back in the hospital just days after completing the treatment.
Despite the challenges, Vicki remained resilient and continued her treatment, including radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and heart surgery to stabilise her arrhythmia. However, in July 2024, her left nipple began to bleed, and she noticed some “rough patches of skin” on her breast, which turned out to be a sign of abnormal cells.
On the advice of her medical team, Vicki has decided to undergo a mastectomy on her left breast, a decision she has made to prioritise her health and well-being.
Reflecting on her experience, Vicki has gained a new perspective on life. She has become more emotional at her children’s events and feels deeply for her friend who passed away while undergoing treatment. Vicki believes that if more treatment options were available, her friend might have had a better chance of survival.
Vicki’s message to others is clear: “If anyone suspects anything about their breasts, please get checked, and please don’t think you might be too young.” She also emphasizes the importance of research, as Breast Cancer Now has launched a five-year research programme into lobular breast cancer, investing £1 million in the first year.
Vicki’s story is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Her journey has been filled with challenges, but her determination to fight and her unwavering support from her family and friends have been a source of inspiration for all who hear her story.