Kris Hallenga, the inspirational founder of breast cancer awareness charity CoppaFeel!, has passed away at the age of 38, leaving behind a profound legacy in the fight against breast cancer.
Diagnosed with terminal breast cancer at the young age of 23, Kris embarked on a mission to empower millions of women to regularly check their breasts for early detection of cancer. Her relentless advocacy for early diagnosis was fueled by her own experience of being turned away by her GP for over a year before receiving her diagnosis.
A close friend, broadcaster Fearne Cotton, paid tribute to Kris, describing her as someone who lived life with unparalleled vibrancy and courage.
CoppaFeel!’s mission, inspired by Kris’s unwavering determination, aimed to educate young people about breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of early detection in saving lives. In a heartfelt statement, the charity remembered Kris as someone who approached life with creativity, fearlessness, and boundless love.
Beyond her philanthropic endeavors, Kris was a respected columnist at The Sun and author of the best-selling book “Glittering a Turd,” chronicling her journey of finding joy and purpose after being confronted with mortality.
Kris’s remarkable story was also captured in the BBC Three documentary “Kris: Dying to Live,” where she candidly shared her perspective on living with cancer and embracing each day with gratitude and acceptance.
Last year, Kris organized a living funeral, attended by celebrities like Dawn French, where she celebrated life surrounded by loved ones. Reflecting on the event, French described it as “phenomenal,” a testament to Kris’s indomitable spirit and zest for life.
In the wake of her passing, Kris’s family has requested privacy to mourn their loss. CoppaFeel! urged everyone to honor Kris’s memory by prioritizing their health and regularly checking their chests for any signs of breast cancer, echoing Kris’s belief that early detection could be life-saving.
Kris’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing research and awareness efforts in the fight against breast cancer, a disease that still claims thousands of lives each year in the UK alone.
