When Steph Upton was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2021, she was just 34 years old. Now, as she approaches her 39th birthday this May, she reflects on the journey she never expected to take.  

As a busy primary school teacher and mum to two young daughters – then just three and five – she faced multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and the sudden impact of treatment-induced menopause. But even after getting through all that, she found herself facing another unexpected challenge – lymphoedema.

Lymphoedema is a lifelong condition that causes swelling, usually in the arms or legs, but other areas can be affected. It can be painful and difficult to manage. For Steph, it was yet another hurdle during an already overwhelming time.

“I wasn’t expecting to go to a hospice” 

After her initial surgery, doctors found cancer in her lymph nodes, leading to further operations, an 11-day hospital stay due to infection, and persistent swelling in her left arm. 

“I’d never heard of lymphoedema before,” Steph explains. “After everything else, I suddenly had this swelling in my arm, and I struggled to manage the pain. That’s when I was referred to Ashgate.” 

At first, she was unsure what to expect. 

“I remember thinking, ‘Why am I going there?’ I thought a hospice was for people who are dying, and it felt daunting. But the moment I arrived, the reception staff were so friendly, and the nurses put me at ease straight away.” 

“They really know their stuff” 

Since starting treatment at Ashgate’s Lymphoedema Service, Steph has been able to better manage her condition and regain some control.  

“They sorted me out with pain relief and taught me massage techniques. Then I started seeing Lisa, who used a negative pressure machine on me every week – it helped so much. More recently, she introduced me to the cupping technique, which I can do at home, and even found something I can wear at night to help with the swelling.” 

Unlike other healthcare settings, where lymphoedema can sometimes be overlooked, Steph found Ashgate’s expertise invaluable. 

“They really know their stuff. Other healthcare professionals just don’t have the same level of knowledge when it comes to lymphoedema. I’ve been coming here since 2021, and if I’m struggling, I can just ring up, and they fit me in.”

“It’s something I live with, but Ashgate has helped me take control” 

Three years on from her diagnosis, Steph is still managing the long-term effects of her treatment – from persistent pain and numbness to the challenges of early menopause. But with the right support, she’s found ways to adapt. 

“I think I’ve just got used to the pain – it’s always there, but I’ve learned how to manage it. The swelling in my arm affects what I can wear, and I need supportive bras that are really expensive, but the team at Ashgate are even looking into whether I can get them on prescription. They go above and beyond to help.” 

“I actually really like coming to Ashgate” 

For Steph, Ashgate is more than just a place for treatment – it’s a place where she feels supported. 

“It might sound strange, but I actually really like coming here. I come early, sit in the café with my laptop, and get some work done before my appointment. The canteen staff, the receptionists – everyone is so lovely. It’s just a really good place to be.” 

Her advice to others living with lymphoedema? 

“Get in touch with Ashgate. They’ll give you advice, show you techniques to help yourself at home, and make such a difference to your quality of life. I honestly don’t know what I’d do without them.”