Louise Rall, 36, from Chandler’s Ford, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004 after finding a “tiny” lump in her breast when she was pregnant with her son, Ben. She thought it was pregnancy- related but tests confirmed it was cancer.

“It came as a great shock as everyone thought it was just ‘pregnancy boobs’,” says Louise.

“Thank goodness my GP and the team at Southampton General Hospital acted quickly. Shortly after I had Ben I had two operations resulting in a mastectomy. That was hard as I’d wanted to breastfeed my baby.”

Surgery was followed by six months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and Louise accepted an invitation to participate in a clinical trial.

But in 2007 it was found the cancer had spread to her bones.

“I thought I’d put cancer in a box – to be told it was still in my body and would never go away prompted a new level of devastation. The challenge is not to let cancer take over your life. My type of cancer is normally treated with a drip, which would keep me in hospital for long periods of time. Instead I take tablets, giving me freedom to carry on a relatively normal life. There are also less drastic side effects so I am able to keep things as normal as possible for my little boy.”

Louise has participated in four clinical trials and one research study. She knew it was a lottery as to whether she would be given the experimental drug or a placebo when she signed up for trials and feels lucky that each time she has received the drug.

“Taking part gave me additional ingredients to help fight the cancer. It was also positive that I could help scientists learn more about this dreadful disease.

“When I reflect on the past five years I have mixed emotions: sadness that I have cancer but I’m proud of how I’m dealing with it to ensure life is kept as normal as possible and that we cherish every moment.” Louise took part in her first Race for Life at Southampton in 2005 after finishing her first lot of chemotherapy. It was her challenge to return to fitness and celebrate coming through rigorous treatment.

“I found it emotional and inspiring. It was the start of getting back to normal and reclaiming my life. I am committed to Race for Life this year.”