A 43-year-old woman has spoken about the shock of being diagnosed with stage four breast cancer — despite feeling completely healthy.
Emma Johnson, a hairdresser from Newcastle, had regular mammograms and lived an active lifestyle. In December, she noticed a small lump in her breast but assumed it was a gym-related injury. She felt no pain, fatigue, or other warning signs.
After tests in early January, she was first told the cancer appeared treatable. However, further scans revealed it had spread to her liver and lymph nodes. Doctors said surgery was no longer possible and estimated she may have around two years to live.
What makes her story especially difficult is that she still feels well. “I don’t feel sick at all,” she said, describing the diagnosis as surreal.
Emma is now receiving hormone treatment and exploring additional options, including therapy overseas that she hopes may extend her life. She is also focusing on nutrition, mental health, and staying positive.
Her message to other women is clear: do not ignore even small changes. She urges women to push for tests if something feels wrong, even if they seem fit and healthy.
Her experience is a reminder that breast cancer can develop quietly — and that early investigation can make a critical difference.