Aqua aerial artist returns to Circus Extreme after overcoming stage three breast cancer
An aqua aerial artist has made an inspirational return to the circus after overcoming stage three breast cancer.
Laura Miller, who is currently in Portsmouth touring with Circus Extreme, thought her career was over after being diagnosed with stage three invasive breast cancer following the discovery of a lump, which was initially believed to be hormonal.
The aerial performer noticed the lump on her breast during a costume change while touring with Aqua Circus in Puerto Rico, but decided to wait until the end of her two month contract to contact the doctors.
She said: “I went to the doctors. I remember it very clearly, she checked it and said: ‘There is something there, but you're so young it's probably just hormonal’.
“I had a flight to Spain booked for the day after my results because I had been so sure that everything was going to be fine. I was going to see my partner in Spain and we were going to carry on with our lives. It was a very, very big shock. I think it's worst for your loved ones than for yourself, to see them suffering. My partner flew back to England the next day.’
“It was just the most heartbreaking time for me. For me my whole life is in the circus doing my act and performing - It's not just losing your job it was also losing my identity. We stopped travelling and I suddenly found myself living at home with my mum and dad.”
Following her diagnosis, Laura had to endure three gruelling surgeries, six months of chemotherapy, three weeks of radiotherapy and a year of targeted Herceptin treatment, followed by two reconstructive surgeries.
During her treatment, which took place at QA Hospital, she was unable to work but said all she could envision was getting back onto her aerial ring.
She explained: “I could see myself holding onto it in my mind and that was my motivation. I wanted so badly to get back to my life. I was very determined and I still count my blessings everyday, some people after the operations I've had can't even lift their arm shoulder high.
“I will always be grateful for the care I received at QA. The staff there work incredibly hard and do a wonderful job looking after patients. It makes returning to perform in Portsmouth even more meaningful, as it is the very place where my treatment took place. I will never forget the life-saving care I received here.”
The circus performer said the process to getting back on the aerial ring has been a lengthy one, with almost three years of treatment and recovery.
Laura added: “I remember one day driving to the gym and walking up to the door but I just had to turn back around. I just didn't have the strength in me, but the next day I did. I think with treatment like this you have good and bad days. When you have bad days, just listen to your body and take it easy.
“Giving up is not my thing, I just wanted to go back to the ring.”
Laura is now actively involved in a Facebook self-help group for young women suffering from breast cancer- Young Breast Cancer Network - and has said it is important to access support.