Mel O’Neill, a mother of two from Penketh, has been sharing her journey of living with breast cancer for over a decade. She recently reflected on her experiences with chemotherapy and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it.
After a break of nearly 4 years, Mel found herself back in the chemo chair, with the first session taking place in September. Despite the challenges, she managed to attend events, such as a Tropic Glammie event in Birmingham where she was recognized for her sales achievements. Mel’s passion for makeup and skincare has been a driving force in her life, leading her to become an ambassador for Tropic.
Following her time in Birmingham, Mel enjoyed a trip to London with her sister-in-law, indulging in experiences like spa days, afternoon tea at the Ritz, and even stumbling upon a comedy show. Despite the highs, the reality of cancer treatment hit hard when side effects kicked in, including a nasty infection in her lymphedema arm.
As Mel navigates the ups and downs of treatment, she finds solace in the joy that others have found in similar situations. Watching Kris Hallenga’s documentary and seeing her resilience in the face of stage 4 breast cancer was a source of inspiration for Mel. Kris’s ability to find purpose and create positive change despite her diagnosis resonated with Mel, reminding her of the importance of cherishing life’s moments.
Mel’s emotional journey took a poignant turn when her youngest daughter performed a lyrical dance inspired by her mother’s battle with cancer. The performance, which touched on themes of waiting rooms, hair loss, and resilience, left Mel in tears, moved by her daughter’s ability to convey such raw emotions through dance.
As Mel prepares for a weekend getaway with friends in Anglesey, she looks forward to moments of laughter and connection. Despite the challenges she faces, Mel remains determined to find hope and happiness in the midst of her cancer journey. Through sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to embrace the moments that bring joy and lightness to their lives, even in the face of adversity.
