Nicky’s story: How I got through a cancer diagnosis

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When Vitality member Nicky noticed a breast lump in September 2023, she assumed it was probably nothing. But when she saw a Vitality consultant, it wasn’t the news she was expecting

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When Nicky’s appointment with an NHS consultant was unexpectedly rescheduled, she booked an earlier one through Vitality assuming it would put her mind to rest sooner rather than later.

Unfortunately, it was only just the start.

“From day one, my Vitality consultant said it’s highly likely it’s cancer,” she tells Vitality, her voice breaking as she relives the moment her world was turned upside down.

Once her diagnosis was confirmed, chemotherapy was discussed and then radiotherapy afterwards. “It was a real shock,” she reflects. “I was fit and healthy. I really looked after myself.”

You just feel completely numb

Nicky, Vitality member

For Nicky, making her first major claim with Vitality, she was amazed at how seamless it all was. “It’s a situation where you can’t control anything,” she tells us. “But I didn’t have to worry.”

When a pink package arrived in the post containing a water bottle, notepad and blanket, Nicky said she was filled with the feeling that she wasn’t alone.

“I felt like I’d been wrapped in cotton wool from the very beginning with Vitality.”

Within three weeks, also through her health insurance, a valve was fitted into her chest to allow for blood tests and for her chemotherapy to be administered. Following that, she had to endure three weeks of daily radiotherapy.

Along the way, she knew what was coming next thanks to the Vitality Care team and felt supported by the specialists at GenesisCare, where she received her treatment.

“The nurses at the clinic were amazing. I did have a laugh with them as well,” she smiles.


Join us during Cancer Prevention Week on Friday 21 February at 11:30am for a live event with Nicky, where she'll talk more about her personal journey with cancer. 

You'll also be able to ask Vitality's Medical Director, Dr Rosie Godeseth, about the early warning signs of cancer and how to seek support. Register to secure your spot here.


The road to recovery

But it wasn’t just clinical care that helped her get through it. Nicky also took advantage of physiotherapy with a personal trainer provided as part of the Vitality’s Cancer Treatment Support Programme, which provides nutrition, mental and physical health assistance during chemotherapy.

“Fitness was a big part of my life even before I was diagnosed, but it became even more important.”

To give herself the best possible chance of recovery, she became more mindful about what she was eating and stayed active by walking the dog in the woods every day – come rain or shine - no matter how bad she felt.

She meditated using the Headspace app, also available to Vitality members, and gave up drinking alcohol. She also maintained her ‘Platinum’ status by drawing upon the Vitality Programme to keep her motivated.

We've become a bit obsessed with getting our steps and earning Vitality points

Nicky, Vitality member

In October 2024, she was given the all-clear. “To actually hear your consultant say it’s all gone is an amazing feeling”.

A new lease of life

To celebrate, Nicky and her extended family – with husband Brian and their kids – enjoyed a holiday to Greece soon after. “And I did have a glass of champagne on holiday,” she laughs.

For some additional rest and relaxation, she’s also going to Champneys, courtesy of Vitality, offered to health insurance members who’ve been through cancer treatment to provide a much-needed break along with some peer-to-peer support from others who have had similar experiences.

The whole experience has given her a fresh outlook. “I try not to worry, as much as I did before,” she reflects.

“And just live in the moment. Sometimes, I look up at the sky while I’m walking the dog and think ‘life’s good’.”

Watch her full story below:

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with cancer or are worried about a potential cancer diagnosis, read our guide on diagnosis and treatment here: A Guide to Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment | Vitality.

Related: How to check yourself for breast cancer

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