In today’s interview, I have the pleasure of chatting with a lovely lady, Mandy May, who talks openly about her journey through breast cancer.
She takes us through her experience from diagnosis, how she coped with hair loss due to chemotherapy, and how she’s doing now, a few years on.
During her treatment, Mandy searched for a support group but couldn’t seem to find one that gave her the right support or the right kind of people. So, of course, the next best thing was to set up her own support group — and that’s exactly what she did.
Mandy is also online, where she offers advice and keeps people up to date with her progress beyond chemotherapy. Every 4–6 weeks, she hosts a coffee morning in Leamington Spa, featuring a speaker who discusses a relevant topic to support attendees.
I’ve encouraged my clients, even those who aren’t local, to attend if they can. Being around people who are welcoming and genuine can make a huge difference in how you feel about your day — and even your journey through treatment.
Mandy is honest, open, and approachable — exactly the kind of support my clients need when going through the same process. I encourage anyone going through breast cancer to, if possible, attend her support group or follow Mandy on her socials. She genuinely helps anyone she can and brings a positive vibe to everyone she meets.
This interview was recorded during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but support is needed all year round. It’s equally important to raise awareness about self-checks and to consult your GP if you notice any changes in your body.
All the topics we discuss are included in the show notes below.
As always, everything shared in this interview reflects one person’s experience. If anything resonates with you, please reach out for support. So grab a cuppa, relax, and I hope you enjoy the show.
Topics Discussed in This Conversation:
- Oestrogen-positive cancer
- Hair loss during chemotherapy
- Wigs and headwear
- Living with a hair condition prior to treatment
- Hair colour and texture changes after treatment
- Sensitivity during treatment
- What to wear under a wig during treatment
- Braving a shave
- Stress and anxiety during treatment
- Self-care during and after treatment / holistic treatments
- Induced menopause
- Cancer prevention medication
- Breast cancer support group and what to expect
- Follow Mandy May on social media for updates, advice, and support @mandymay_myjourney on Instagram.
If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/
If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity.
For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/
If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/
Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition.
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