When Angelica-Hazel Toutounji found a lump in her breast, she was only 33 and juggling two young children while running a busy women’s health business.
Health and wellness were at the core of her life, so the last thing she was expecting was a breast cancer diagnosis.
“My first thought was ‘how am I going to tell my husband and kids’,” Angelica-Hazel said.
Angelica-Hazel was diagnosed with an aggressive form of HER2-positive breast cancer, but after successful treatment and a mastectomy, she’s thankfully now on the other side.
She’s using her story to help others, joining The Hospital Research Foundation (THRF) Group as an ambassador to raise awareness for breast cancer and women’s health.
A passion for helping others
With a background in nutrition and a Master’s in Reproductive Medicine, Angelica-Hazel has spent years helping women and men improve their fertility.
She’s also passionate about encouraging women to make their health a priority, particularly busy mums who often put themselves last.
“I’ve always been passionate about helping others put their health first,” Angelica-Hazel explained.
“I want to be living proof that you can get through it. I want women and men to take their health seriously and get checked. If sharing my story can create a ripple effect, that’s all I hope for.
“One of my clients got herself checked after hearing my story, and she found out she had stage 0 breast cancer. If it helps one person – it’s worth it.”
Angelica-Hazel’s decision to become an ambassador for THRF Group recognises the critical role research played in her journey.
“I had a type of cancer that not long ago didn’t have good outcomes,” Angelica-Hazel said.
“If it wasn’t for breakthrough drugs like Herceptin, my prognosis might have been different.
“That’s why I’m here – because research gave me a chance.”
Welcome to our THRF Group family Angelica-Hazel! Your courage, determination and commitment to making a difference will inspire countless others.
