CoppaFeel! founder Kris Hallenga dies aged 38 after teaching a generation how to check for breast cancer
COPPAFEEL! founder and Sun columnist Kris Hallenga has died aged 38 after teaching millions how to check for breast cancer.
The fearless campaigner taught a generation how to ensure breast cancers are diagnosed early and accurately.
Kris was diagnosed with terminal secondary breast cancer aged 23 in 2009 after being turned away from her GP for more than a year.
She campaigned bravely to ensure people know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer so they are always caught in time.
Kris fought successfully for cancer education to be included in the school curriculum and wrote a best-selling book, Glittering a Turd.
Posting on Instagram, CoppaFeel! said: “We share the sad news that our founder, boob chief, colleague, friend and queen of glittering turds, Kris, has died.
“Kris was the biggest promoter of being ‘alive to do those things’. She approached life in a wildly creative, fun and fearless way.
“She showed us that it is possible to live life to the full with cancer.
CoppaFeel! added: “Kris’ ambition was for no one else to find themselves in her position.
“So CoppaFeel! was born, to ensure breast cancers are diagnosed early and accurately.
“Kris’ life mission was that CoppaFeel! would no longer need to exist, with late diagnosis of breast cancer eradicated in her lifetime.
“We are committed to continuing Kris’ legacy, to ensure that everyone has the best chance of living a happy and healthy life.
“She hasn’t lost a battle, she wasn’t in a fight and she certainly wouldn’t want you to see her death as tragic.
“She was simply living. She was 38 and died with fulfilment and a heart full of love.
“Kris’ family have one request – for peace and privacy to allow them the time and space needed to process Kris’ death.
What are the signs of breast cancer?
BREAST cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK.
The majority of women who get it are over 50, but younger women and, in rare cases, men can also get breast cancer.
If it’s treated early enough, breast cancer can be prevented from spreading to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue.
Most breast lumps aren’t cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor. You should also speak to your GP if you notice any of the following:
- a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
- discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood)
- a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
- dimpling on the skin of your breasts
- a rash on or around your nipple
- a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
Source: NHS
“We would like to thank our community for your love and messages of support.”
CoppaFeel! added: “We kindly ask that you respect the family’s wishes at this time.
“Please remember the amazing life Kris led and the things she achieved.
“But above all else honour her memory by checking your chest… it could just save your life.”