After being offered an early mammogram at the age of 46 as part of a local trial aimed at younger women, Alex Simms, who was employed in corporate events, received shocking news that she had an invasive ductal carcinoma in her left breast.
Despite the unexpected diagnosis, Alex, now 54, from Berkhamsted, Herts, fondly known as La, reflects on her journey positively, stating, “I would one hundred per cent go through the ordeal again because it has led me to a happier life today.”
Recalling her initial thoughts on the mammogram, she shares, “With no history of cancer in the family and having breastfed my children, I was not concerned. I didn’t even inquire about the results timeline.”
However, a week later, a letter summoned La – mother to Lily, 22, Maisy, 19, and Harry, 14 – for further examinations at a local hospital along with a companion. Following additional tests, including a biopsy, doctors informed her and her husband Jason, 54, a television executive, that she had breast cancer, likely at stage 2.
Expressing her shock, La discloses, “The news was devastating. The cancer was deeply rooted, undetectable by touch, and had I waited until later to undergo the mammogram, survival may have been uncertain. We received the diagnosis on Jason’s 46th birthday, which he described as the worst gift ever.”
Concerned about her children’s well-being and job security, she admits, “I was anxious about my kids. I couldn’t bear the thought of them growing up without their mother. I also wanted to ensure my employers would be understanding.”
Fortunately, following a lumpectomy and extensive radiotherapy, La, who is now raising awareness during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, received a clean bill of health. She soon realized that the experience in 2017 had not only cured her cancer but also catalyzed a profound personal transformation.
Reflecting on her post-treatment emotions, she shares, “Although the treatment was harsh, it was a pivotal moment for me. After completing the treatment and ringing the bell, I found myself crying daily, questioning whether I would return to my old life.”
She continues, “Strangely, cancer was my savior. It triggered a significant change in my life. Despite appearing cheerful and composed externally, I was living a toxic and stressful life. Cancer became the wake-up call I needed to make a change.”
Confronting her mortality prompted La to address the underlying causes of her toxic behavior.
“Growing up as the ‘good girl’ for my mother after my parents’ divorce at age three set a pattern for my life,” she reveals. “I prioritized others’ happiness over my own, leading to a facade of contentment while inwardly struggling.”
Convinced that her emotional suppression played a role in her illness, she emphasizes, “Our bodies retain the impact of emotional turmoil.”
Determined to enhance her well-being, La delved into researching lymphatic drainage methods to eliminate toxins and reduce fluid retention, investing in specialized massage tools and exploring alternative therapies.
Empowered by her improved health, she established a treatment space in her garden, launching a successful venture known as Lala Loves, offering retreats and specialized services.
With a vision to organize retreats for cancer survivors and a podcast, Cancer Cured Me, where individuals share their journeys, La’s message resonates: “Don’t wait for a crisis to transform your life; the time for change is now.”