FUC FASHION F*CK YOU CANCER

Hi my name is Charlie and I am a 45 year old mum of 3. I own and run Wassmuffin Mixed Martial Arts Academy in Boscombe with my brother. I am a PT and teach Muay Thai and Bootcamp classes.

In August 2017 I was diagnosed with stage 3 estrogen positive breast cancer. Treatment included surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and meds. I refused chemotherapy knowing how awful it was and hoped making a few other changes alongside my medical regime would help. After a lumpectomy and nose clearance, cancer was found in 2 out of the 4 nodes taken so this meant more surgery for a full node clearance as they were afraid it had spread. 4 months later I had just started radiotherapy and found another lump in my scar. My surgeon was sure it was just scar tissue and sent me for a ultrasound ‘just to put my mind at ease’. Unfortunately the exact opposite of that happened.

A biopsy was taken as the lump looked suspicious. 2 weeks later I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer and given a new treatment plan which included chemotherapy (and this time I accepted) a double mastectomy (as Gene’s testing discovered I had the BRCA2 gene) and reconstruction plus more meds.

Since then I’ve had 8 surgeries due to the mastectomy going wrong which has led to my most recent surgery which was a full reconstruction made from my own body. I’ve also suffered 2 strokes which after extensive testing they have concluded this was due to the cancer diagnosis.

In between all of this I decided to start my own athleisure company and donate the proceeds to a cancer charity. It’s a great feeling to be able to help people and give back a little. It honestly helps me to be able to make a difference know matter how small. Its obviously very close to my heart. I know how people feel when diagnosed or going through chemo. I know the effect it can have in family and friends. And the charities I support are vital in helping people in so many ways.

This year I am raising money for shine. A charity which supports young adults with a cancer diagnosis.

I try other things alongside the clothing. My project at the end of last year was a calendar to raise awareness as well as money. It was full of inspirational stories and pictures. Unfortunately due to my last surgery date changing and all events being cancelled thanks to lock down, I have been unable distribute the remaining stock. I would much rather they people were getting use out of them than sat in my front room. So I have decided that anyone who would like one locally can contact me and I will deliver safely with no charge at all! Cancer effects so many of us these days I would much rather they were raising awareness. That’s such a big part if what I do. I’ll be happy to post

FASHION

further afield too I will just ask for £2 to cover postage. This can be paid via PayPal address; charlylowe2@gmail.com. I have no limit on how many you would like all for free but I will accept any donations to FUC clothing. Every single penny helps me on my mission as I am a new business making donations.

I always have such great support that I am forever grateful for so a massive e thank you for those that have helped me in any way whatsoever. Here’s hoping you are all staying safe and happy and look forward to seeing you on the other side... an FUC Clothing party is in the making.