A mother-of-three from Stalybridge has shared the devastating news of her cancer diagnosis, which came just days before her wedding. Sarah Bamber, 45, discovered a lump in her breast ahead of her wedding day, which, alongside significant weight loss, prompted her to seek medical advice.
Following a doctor’s visit and subsequent biopsies, Sarah received the heartbreaking news that she had breast cancer. Further investigations revealed that the cancer had spread to her liver and bones, meaning while treatable, it is incurable. She was given a prognosis of five to eight years.
Reflecting on the diagnosis, Sarah said, “I was devastated; it was supposed to be such a happy time.”
Sarah faced the difficult task of explaining the diagnosis to her children, who were just three and four years old at the time. She and her husband, Chris, decided to be honest but careful with their wording. “We never say the treatment will make me better, as you never want to promise something that’s not true. But there will come a time when we need to have a deeper conversation with them.”
Sarah began her treatment at The Christie, a renowned cancer care centre in Manchester. She underwent 24 cycles of chemotherapy, completing the rounds in March this year. Now, Sarah continues with regular treatments every three weeks to slow the growth of the tumours.
Speaking about her experience at The Christie, Sarah praised the staff and fellow patients. “It’s an amazing place with incredibly supportive staff. I’ve met people who’ve been given months to live, and they’re so inspiring and positive. It shines a different light on my situation.”
To give back to the hospital, Sarah’s husband Chris, along with family friend Nick Ryan, has organised a charity rugby match. The event will take place on 29th September at the Regional Arena in Manchester City. The match will feature men’s and women’s teams competing against Great Britain Police teams to raise funds for The Christie.
Chris, a former rugby player, said, “We’re staying strong as a family. Around 50% of people will get cancer in their lifetime, and The Christie helps so many. This is my way of giving back.”
Nick Ryan, director of The City Recruiter, which is supporting the event, added, “These charity matches are just one way we can raise funds for the incredible work The Christie does, while bringing everyone together for two entertaining games of rugby.”
The event has also garnered support from Tesco, where Sarah has worked for over two decades. Before her diagnosis, she served as Managing Director of Tesco Express. After treatment, she returned to work in June as Managing Director of Business Support. “It’s a unique company where we really care about people,” Sarah said. “I definitely felt that when I was diagnosed.”
Looking forward, Sarah hopes for continued progress in cancer treatments. “If we can play a role in preventing anyone else’s breast cancer from being incurable by catching it early, that would be amazing.” Click here to buy tickets to the event or donate to The Christie