KRIS Hallenga’s family have released an emotional montage of the CoppaFeel! founder’s life – after her death sparked an outpouring of tributes.
Sun columnist Kris has died aged 38 after teaching millions how to check for breast cancer.
Kris Hallenga was a fearless breast cancer campaigner
A snap of Kris from the emotional montage
Kris as a young child
The fearless campaigner taught a generation how to ensure breast cancers are diagnosed early and accurately.
This afternoon Kris’s family posted a video montage showing her dancing, swimming, walking on the beach and laughing with friends.
Kris was diagnosed with terminal secondary breast cancer aged 23 in 2009 after being turned away from her GP for more than a year.
She campaigned bravely to ensure people know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer so they are always caught in time.
Kris fought successfully for cancer education to be included in the school curriculum and wrote a best-selling book, Glittering a Turd.
Her dream was that one day CoppaFeel! would no longer need to exist and late diagnosis of breast cancer might be eradicated.
Posting on Instagram, CoppaFeel! said: “We share the sad news that our founder, boob chief, colleague, friend and queen of glittering turds, Kris, has died.
“Kris was the biggest promoter of being ‘alive to do those things’. She approached life in a wildly creative, fun and fearless way.
“She showed us that it is possible to live life to the full with cancer.
CoppaFeel! added: “Kris’ ambition was for no one else to find themselves in her position.
“So CoppaFeel! was born, to ensure breast cancers are diagnosed early and accurately.
“Kris’ life mission was that CoppaFeel! would no longer need to exist, with late diagnosis of breast cancer eradicated in her lifetime.
“We are committed to continuing Kris’ legacy, to ensure that everyone has the best chance of living a happy and healthy life.
“She hasn’t lost a battle, she wasn’t in a fight and she certainly wouldn’t want you to see her death as tragic.
“She was simply living. She was 38 and died with fulfilment and a heart full of love.
“Kris’ family have one request – for peace and privacy to allow them the time and space needed to process Kris’ death.
“We would like to thank our community for your love and messages of support.”
CoppaFeel! added: “We kindly ask that you respect the family’s wishes at this time.
“Please remember the amazing life Kris led and the things she achieved.
“But above all else honour her memory by checking your chest… it could just save your life.”
What are the signs of breast cancer?
BREAST cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK.
The majority of women who get it are over 50, but younger women and, in rare cases, men can also get breast cancer.
If it’s treated early enough, breast cancer can be prevented from spreading to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue.
Most breast lumps aren’t cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor. You should also speak to your GP if you notice any of the following:
a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood)
a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
dimpling on the skin of your breasts
a rash on or around your nipple
a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
Source: NHS
In a tribute, Breast Cancer Now said: “We’re heartbroken to hear that Kris Hallenga, founder of CoppaFeel!, has died.
“Kris was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2009 when she was just 23,
“Since then she has been a tireless force for breast cancer awareness and early diagnosis.”
Campaigner Sarah Brown, who is married to former PM Gordon Brown, also paid tribute to Kris.
Posting on Twitter, she said: “So very sorry to hear that Kris Hallenga has passed away.
“Her legacy is both the joy and full-on glitter of her life amidst the scary stuff of cancer AND the remarkable CoppaFeel! charity.
“Condolences to Maren, Maike and their mum.”
Prevent Breast Cancer said: “We’re incredibly saddened to hear that Kris Hallenga, founder of CoppaFeel!, has died.
“Thank you for tirelessly raising awareness of breast cancer and advocating for early diagnosis.
“Everyone at Prevent Breast Cancer sends our love at this difficult time.”
Comedian Russell Howard said: “What an awesome, inspirational, life-chasing woman.
“An absolute pleasure to have known you Kris.”
