Our Charity Ambassadors

Our charity ambassadors play a key role in helping the charity meet its strategic objectives to increase awareness of its work and by championing the charity’s work within local communities by means of hosting information stands and delivering talks in their places of work/study, within local networks and organisations. The role of charity ambassador is vital to the work of the charity and ensures that those who need our support are aware of our existence and that they understand what we do and how to access our services.

Another key part of the charity ambassador role is to help raise valuable funds so that the charity’s free and confidential support may continue long into the future.

  • Heidi Loughlin

    From Portishead in North Somerset, Heidi was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) in 2015 and given just 12 months to live. Heidi continues to be an inspiration to many with her determination, resilience and compassion.

    Well known for her Facebook blog, “Storm in a tit cup” which Heidi describes as “raising awareness of inflammatory breast cancer through mostly dark and sweary humour ”, her blog provides much hope and awareness of IBC, the charity and her outstanding charity work to the public and business.

  • Gio Gerold

    Having had a successful and enriching career in the NHS for almost 25 years; working clinically as a Senior Sister and latterly as a Senior Operational Manager. In March 2023, age 43, my world was turned upside down; I unexpectedly found myself 'on the other side' when I was diagnosed with stage 4 Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC). With lifelong treatment to manage, I am now balancing this challenge with huge support from my wonderful husband and family, focusing on staying well and putting my energy into the joy of raising our two children, and our two looney GSP hounds!

    The IBC Network UK has been an incredible source of information and support for me. I deeply understand the importance of educating both healthcare professionals and patients about IBC, raising awareness for early diagnosis, and ensuring that treatments adhere to Standards of Care for best patient outcomes. Sadly, I have now taken medical retirement, but I do hope to be able to put to good use, all my NHS nursing and leadership experience, to support the growth of the IBC Network. I feel honoured to have been offered the role of Charity Ambassador and am privileged to work alongside others within this wonderful charity.