In May 2024, just two weeks after Isla’s 31st birthday, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, but little more than a year later, she was running the Saucony 10k in London for Against Breast Cancer.
Even with a family history of the disease, the diagnosis came as a massive shock. Isla was young, otherwise healthy, and certainly hadn’t imagined facing something so life-altering at this stage of her life.
What followed were, in Isla’s words, “six of the most gruelling months I’ve ever experienced.” Chemotherapy tested every ounce of her strength, and in the autumn, she underwent a double mastectomy.
“I was exhausted physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she told us. When I finally heard the words ‘in remission’ in January 2025, I was overwhelmed with relief and gratitude, but also completely drained. I had survived, but I didn’t quite recognise myself anymore. I had forgotten what it felt like to feel well.”
Finding a New Goal
So, when Isla’s dear friend Miles asked if she wanted to run the Saucony 10K for Against Breast Cancer, her initial reaction was: “Absolutely not.” After everything, she couldn’t imagine finding the energy to run, let alone take on the emotional toll of fundraising.
But the more Isla thought about it, the more she realised how much she owed to the researchers, advocates, and supporters behind the scenes of charities like Against Breast Cancer.
“My treatment, my care, my remission, none of it would have been possible without them. I wanted to give something back.”
Training and Transformation
Committing to the run gave Isla something powerful: a goal. Training gave her days structure and purpose. Little by little, she started to feel stronger, more present, and more “me.”
“Knowing that I was doing this not just for myself, but to help others, gave me the push I needed. We smashed our original fundraising target of £500 in just a couple of days, and to date, we’ve raised £1,705. The generosity and kind words from friends, family, and even strangers moved me more than I can express.”
Race Day Magic
Race day was everything Isla hoped it would be. The sun was shining, music was pumping, and the crowd’s energy carried them forward.
“It was a baking hot day, and we both found the first two km the hardest, then we got into the swing of it, kept hydrated while running beneath huge Pride flags, discovered that the supposedly cooling ‘runner’s mist’, which was mostly just dampening, took a selfies on Westminster Bridge, found our partners, friends, and chihuahuas cheering us on.
“Crossing the finish line felt like a defining moment, not just of the race, but of the last year.” They cried happy tears, surrounded by joy, support, and love. After everything Isla had been through, “this felt like a new chapter.”
Miles later said, “It meant so much to see Isla use her body and succeed. She’s stronger than ever, and it’s an indescribable feeling to watch her win her happiness back. You deserve it, gorjina. Love you forever. To everyone who donated, cheered us on, or supports Against Breast Cancer in any way, thank you, truly. Your support funds lifesaving research, helps patients feel less alone, and creates real hope. Progress in the fight against breast cancer is only possible because of people like you.”
Isla said “I’m proud of what I’ve overcome. And I’m even more proud to be able to give back.”
From all of us at Against Breast Cancer, a massive thank you to Isla and Miles for their strength, determination, and for raising an incredible £1,705 to support our vital research. Together, we’re running towards a future free from breast cancer.
Fancy signing up to one of our running events in support of ABC yourself? You can find more information here.