When Julie Johnson walked through the doors of the House of Hope, we saw a powerful combination of strength, warmth, and a determination to help others. Recently diagnosed with lobular breast cancer, Julie wants to share her story to raise awareness and ensure more women know what signs to look for, especially because the symptoms of this type of breast cancer can be harder to detect.
At the start of May, Julie received the shocking news that she had Lobular breast cancer. A strong and resilient woman from Cumbernauld, she described the three-week wait to find out whether her cancer had spread as “one of the scariest times you can experience in your life.” Thankfully, her cancer was caught early, and she started chemotherapy this month with bravery, hope, and a desire to raise awareness.
Julie decided to shave her head before her treatment began. In doing this, she has taken control of her hair loss, donated her thick, beautiful hair to a children’s wig charity supporting young people going through cancer and also raised over £4,500 for the House of Hope! This is an incredible gift that will help others access vital support during the hardest moments of their lives.
What is Lobular Breast Cancer?
Lobular breast cancer, also known as invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), is the second most common type of breast cancer. It begins in the lobules (the glands that produce milk) and can behave differently from other types of breast cancer.
Unlike more common breast cancers, lobular breast cancer doesn’t always form a lump. Instead, it might cause a thickening or a subtle change in breast texture or shape. It’s also less likely to be seen on standard mammograms, particularly in women with denser breast tissue.
That’s why awareness is so important.
What to look out for
Julie’s story is a reminder to know your body and trust your instincts. Some possible symptoms of lobular breast cancer include:
An area of thickening or fullness in the breast
Changes in the shape or size of the breast
Skin changes or dimpling
A newly inverted nipple
Breast discomfort or tenderness
Changes that don’t show up on scans
If something feels a little bit different, even if it’s not a lump, it’s always best to get it checked.
The power of early detection
Early diagnosis saves lives. While lobular breast cancer can be more difficult to spot, catching it early, as in Julie’s case, means treatment can begin before the cancer spreads. Treatment often includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone therapy, and recovery rates are encouraging, especially when detected early.
A message of hope
Julie’s strength, kindness, and sense of humour shine through in her words and actions, As she begins chemotherapy, she’s taking control of her own journey while also helping so many others feel less alone.
"The House of Hope is a wonderful place for support and companionship in what can be an isolating period—even if you are surrounded by family and friends. Make the most of every day you have because life can be very unpredictable."
Thank you, Julie
From all of us at The House of Hope: thank you for your courage, support and for helping shine a light on a lesser-known type of breast cancer that more women need to understand. Your story will empower others to act early, seek support, and face their diagnosis with hope.
If you’d like to learn more about lobular breast cancer, visit lobularbreastcancer.org.uk.
And if you’re looking for a space to talk, connect and feel supported, the team at the House of Hope are here for you. Drop in for a chat.
"The House of Hope is a wonderful place for support and companionship in what can be an isolating period—even if you are surrounded by family and friends. Make the most of every day you have because life can be very unpredictable."
