Time finally arrived for me to publicly thank the blessed hands that operated on me and comforted me through my own experience with breast cancer as a 20 year old student. 

Much like the hands of God, reconstruction support helps make people whole. 
As a woman in today’s society, confidence and self-esteem arguably are closely linked to our identity. This sadly is often heavily weighted upon appearance. Nevertheless, with ‘Keeping Abreast’, and other support available, learning about the varieties of options women can undertake after lumpectomies or mastectomies really creates peace of mind. 

At the ‘Keeping Abreast’ celebration March 2025, it was a blessing to see Dr. Krupa and Claire Porter whose dedication to breast care I believe has truly impacted the quality of life for myself and I am confident for that of others too. 

Sister Charmelle and Dr Krupa

After singing a selection of vibrant Gospel songs that night, with the EAGA Gospel Choir to mark the occasion, I took the opportunity to seize the moment and testify about my own journey to the unsuspecting audience. I recounted that it was under the care of Dr. Krupa that I was treated with dignity and respect; treated as an individual and as someone special. My journey therefore had quickly changed from one of detachment and dread, to one of family and faith; with those at the Glenfield Breast Care Unit forming a wider family and trusted nurture group that God worked through. 

I am grateful for the opportunity to have met them again and pray that the great work continues.