Paula Rizqallah

I’m part of the International Women’s Day Fun Run!

I’m 39 years old, a mum of three, a wife, a business owner — and I’m also a proud breast cancer survivor.

Three years ago, my life changed forever. On Christmas Day 2022, I found a lump in my right breast completely by accident. I wasn’t even checking — I just stumbled across it, and it felt like a marble.

Not long after, I was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer. I also found out I carry the BRCA1 gene, which significantly increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

From that moment on, everything became about survival. I went through gruelling chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, and like so many women, I quickly learned that cancer doesn’t just affect your body — it impacts your family, your work, your confidence, and your whole sense of safety in the world.

But the truth is, the journey doesn’t always end when treatment finishes.

Even now, as a survivor, I’m still making decisions to protect my health and my future. Because of the BRCA1 gene, I recently made the choice to have a preventative hysterectomy in October — another huge step in reducing my cancer risk and staying here for the people I love most.

It’s been a lot… physically, emotionally, and mentally — but I’ve learned that being strong doesn’t mean doing it alone.

That’s why I’m fundraising for Mater Chicks in Pink.

Mater Chicks in Pink supports women with breast cancer through practical care and real support — including counselling services, and essential items like mastectomy bras and wigs after surgery and chemotherapy. They also help fund world-leading research, improving survival rates and giving women more hope, more options, and more time.

If my story has taught me anything, it’s that support matters — and research saves lives.

Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. Even $65 can help ease the stress for women and families who are walking this road right now.

If you’re able to support my fundraiser, I would truly appreciate it. From the bottom of my heart — thank you for helping me support women with breast cancer today, and helping save more lives tomorrow. 💗