A mother initially thought her back pain was from a pulled muscle but later discovered it was a sign of a serious illness. Rachel McCormack, 38, had overcome stage two breast cancer in 2015 through chemotherapy and surgery. However, in December 2024, she started experiencing lower back pain, which she believed was due to muscle strain. After consulting with her medical team at Scarborough Hospital, an MRI scan revealed spinal fractures caused by tumors.
In July 2025, Rachel was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer and is currently undergoing a 12-week treatment regimen involving chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Despite the prognosis being non-curable, her family and friends are supporting her by raising funds to purchase a campervan. This will provide Rachel, her partner James, and their daughter Iris with opportunities for brief getaways between treatments.
As a midwife, Rachel noted that her job’s physical demands may have contributed to her back issues. She emphasized the importance of receiving medical attention when experiencing persistent symptoms. Rachel highlighted the need for practical planning amidst her treatment, especially in caring for her young daughter.
Rachel’s routine mammograms had been clear, but anxiety about her cancer’s return lingered. She stressed the significance of early detection and treatment based on her own experiences. The community’s generous response to the campervan fundraiser has exceeded expectations, providing hope and comfort to Rachel and her family during this challenging time.
The campervan will offer them a sense of freedom and normalcy, allowing for memorable moments together. With ongoing treatment, Rachel remains optimistic about creating lasting memories and spreading awareness about cancer, particularly among young individuals.