Our Partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support

A breast cancer diagnosis changes everything. For many, the journey doesn’t end when treatment finishes, it often leaves lasting scars, both physically and emotionally. One of the final steps in breast reconstruction can be the recreation of an areola, which helps many women feel “complete” again after surgery. Research shows that nipple-areola complex (NAC) tattooing can play a vital role in recovery after breast cancer, helping to restore both physical and emotional wellbeing when reconstruction or surgery has removed the nipple and areola. Unlike surgical nipple reconstruction, 3D tattoos often heal more quickly and can make a real difference to how survivors feel about themselves, improving body image, supporting intimacy, drawing attention away from scars, and helping to restore a sense of wholeness. This support is needed more than ever. A survey by Breast Cancer Now found that 44% of women who had breast cancer said it negatively affected their body image. For many, the emotional fallout of surgery including challenges with identity, confidence and self-esteem, which can be just as difficult to cope with as the physical impact. The fact that nearly half of women report these struggles shows just how widespread the issue is. Now, a local aesthetics practitioner based in Pontypridd is stepping forward to offer her skills to support this vital stage of healing. The psychological and emotional impacts, including loss of identity, lowered self-esteem, mental health stress, are real and longstanding. Chloe’s offer is not just cosmetic, it plays a part in mental wellbeing . Chloe Thomas, who runs Inject Aesthetics , has worked in the aesthetics field for four years. While much of her role has focused on beauty treatments, Chloe wanted to do something that reached deeper than appearance. | “As someone working in aesthetics, I wanted to use my skills to make a real difference beyond beauty treatments. Helping survivors feel more comfortable in their own skin is deeply rewarding and gives my work greater purpose.” Chloe now provides free 3D areola tattoos for breast cancer survivors. This specialist tattooing technique creates the illusion of an areola on flat skin, helping women feel more like themselves again following reconstructive surgery. She explained: | “Breast cancer takes such a toll on both the body and mind. Offering this service helps survivors feel complete again, supporting their healing journey and reminding them of their strength and beauty.” The service is not just cosmetic, it is deeply tied to confidence, self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing . For many, having the option of an areola tattoo marks the final step in reclaiming their body and identity after cancer. Chloe hopes her offer will also spark a wider movement within the community: | “I hope it empowers survivors, helps them regain self-esteem, and inspires others in the community to find ways to give back and support those who are healing.” She makes sure every client feels comfortable and supported before their appointment, offering a safe, positive and empowering experience at every stage. If you’d like more information, or support with any other concerns relating to cancer, please get in touch with our CRT Together Link Workers who are here to help by clicking here.

A new national initiative has been launched by PureGym in collaboration with The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, offering free 12-month gym memberships to people affected by prostate cancer. The scheme is designed to help individuals improve their physical and mental wellbeing through exercise, with access to PureGym’s facilities, classes and equipment at no cost. Research has shown that staying active can play a significant role in supporting recovery, boosting energy levels and improving overall quality of life during and after cancer treatment. At CRT Together, we know how vital it is that people can connect to opportunities like this. Our Link Workers are on hand to support anyone impacted by cancer across Cwm Taf Morgannwg and Aneurin Bevan UHB coalfield areas, making sure local people know what’s available and how to access it. | “Initiatives like this can make a real difference. Removing barriers to physical activity gives people the chance to focus on their wellbeing while feeling supported,” Adam, Partnerships Officer - CRT Together If you or someone you know could benefit, we encourage you to speak with one of our Link Workers, who can provide details and connect you with the programme and support with other concerns you may have. Get in touch today by clicking here .