Charlotte's Story

When Charlotte was just 17 she lost her mum to ovarian cancer, after finding out she carried the BRCA1 mutation Charlotte decided to have a double mastectomy aged just 26 due to her genetic risk. Whilst recovering Charlotte designed a bag to hold post surgical drains in order to make herself feel better and able to do things for herself. After realising how beneficial these were she decided to make these available to all women, whilst raising money for a great charity. Drain dollies are distributed all over the world and come highly recommended by some of the leading breast surgeons. Charlotte continues to work hard in raising awareness of the BRCA mutation and offers support and guidance to others affected.

I continue to try and raise awareness of genetic mutations putting people at a high risk of getting cancer. There is a stigma attached to having a double mastectomy which needs to be removed. I believe it is a difficult journey, a journey that can save your life. I feel lucky to of been armed with the knowledge I have and been able to act on it. I feel empowered that I have made a life changing choice that in no way diminishes my femininity and confidence.