Ruth Salla

---

Ruth Salla

Liverpool, UK

Diagnosis

Ruth was diagnosed with high-grade DCIS in January 2025 at the age of 41, after attending a routine mammogram at 40. Ruth received earlier screenings as her mum passed away due to breast cancer when Ruth was just nine years old. Ruth believes that without the mammogram, her cancer may not have been detected so early — and that it truly saved her life.

Treatment in Ruth’s Words

“I underwent a mastectomy without reconstruction and started Tamoxifen, although it didn’t agree with me, so I’m currently discussing other options with my medical team. At the time of diagnosis, I felt completely overwhelmed. There was so much information to process, and because of another health condition, it was decided that the safest option for me was a mastectomy without reconstruction. Initially, my focus was simply on getting rid of the cancer, but afterwards I was left adjusting to looking physically very different.That adjustment has been difficult at times, but I’m learning to be kind to myself. It’s still a work in progress.”

"I now offer complimentary photography sessions for people before surgery and post-surgery, to help empower them and remind them how beautiful and strong they are."

---

Family and Support

“We already had our little girl, so fertility wasn’t something I had to think about personally. In terms of support, it’s been a real mixture. Some people became distant and barely kept in touch, while others became absolute rocks for us. As a family, we truly couldn’t have got through it without the support we received. We’ll always be grateful for the kindness shown to us — from school pick-ups and meals dropped off, to walks, conversations, and simply being there.”

Life Beyond Diagnosis

“Life after diagnosis has been very up and down. I feel incredibly grateful that my cancer was found early, but adjusting to being flat comes with both good and difficult days. I really wish there was more representation in society for women who choose — or need — to stay flat after surgery. The preventative treatments can also be incredibly tough, and not many people talk about that. Once treatment ends, people often assume you’re back to ‘normal,’ but the reality is that long-term side effects can have a huge impact on daily life. At the same time, my diagnosis has given me a completely new outlook on life. I’m deeply grateful it was caught early and treated."

"I work as a photographer, and I’ve always been passionate about preserving real memories and connections within families. Since my diagnosis, that passion has only grown stronger. I now offer complimentary photography sessions for people before surgery and post-surgery, to help empower them and remind them how beautiful and strong they are.”

Advice for the Newly Diagnosed

“One day at a time. There is so much to process in the beginning. I found Breast Cancer Now’s ‘Someone Like Me’ service incredibly helpful — they match you with someone who has been through something similar, so you can talk openly about your worries and fears."

"Try to walk or exercise when you can, eat well, and most importantly, if you feel able to, talk about it.”