Bride's cancer battle (From Western Telegraph)

Bride's cancer battle

Jennifer French, of Milford Haven, was determined that nothing should spoil her wedding day.

So when doctors broke the news to her that she had breast cancer, she decided to keep it a secret from her partner Gwyn and her family until after the big day.

"It was so very hard," she said. "But we had made all the plans and I didn't want people to be upset, so I didn't tell a soul."

On Monday, Jennifer and Gwyn celebrated their first wedding anniversary.

They also marked almost a year since Jennifer had breast surgery, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Jennifer is one of an increasing number of women in Pembrokeshire to suffer from breast cancer.

The Local Health Board confirmed this week that more cases of breast cancer than average are diagnosed in the county, but the death rate in Pembrokeshire is lower.

For 48-year-old Jennifer the news was devastating. But she did not share her secret with Gwyn until a week after the wedding.

"I knew if I told him, he would want me to tell my parents and my four daughters. They were all so excited about the wedding as we had been together for eight years. In the end I had so much to do, I didn't have time to worry."

When they learned her secret, Jennifer's family rallied round.

Recently, they cheered her on when she dared to have a 'number two' head-shave.

She lost her locks at Cut Aways, Milford Haven, in support of Cancer Research UK Cymru. Through sponsorship from family and friends she raised £2,000.

Although Jennifer has now finished her treatment, she will be on medication for the next five years and her desire to help raise funds for the vital research is an inspiration to all around her.

Jennifer says: "I would like to say a huge thank-you to all my family, friends and the local community for their wonderful support and generosity. I am thrilled to be able to support this fantastic and very personal cause."

Anyone wishing to get involved in fundraising events should contact Cancer Research UK Cymru Cardiff fundraising office on 029 2022 4386.