Kris Hallenga, the founder of breast cancer charity CoppaFeel!, has died aged 38.
The charity raises awareness of the importance of young women checking their breasts for early signs of cancer.
Hallenga was 23 when she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer.
A statement from CoppaFeel! reads: “We share the sad news that our founder, boob chief, colleague, friend and queen of glittering turds, Kris, has died.
“Kris was the biggest promoter of being ‘alive to do those things’. She approached life in a wildly creative, fun and fearless way, and showed us that it’s possible to live life to the full with cancer.”
The charity added: “In 2009 Kris was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer at the age of 23, after being turned away from her GP for over a year.
“By the time she was diagnosed, it was terminal. Kris’ ambition was for no one else to find themselves in her position and so CoppaFeel! was born, to ensure breast cancers are diagnosed early and accurately.”
Hallenga successfully campaigned for cancer education to be included in the school curriculum, won the Women of the Year Outstanding Young Campaigner award, received an honorary doctorate in public administration from Nottingham Trent University and wrote Glittering a Turd, which became a Times Best-Selling book.
The charity’s tribute said: “Kris’ life mission was that CoppaFeel! would no longer need to exist, with late diagnosis of breast cancer eradicated in her lifetime.
“We’re committed to continuing Kris’ legacy, to ensure that everyone has the best chance of living a happy and healthy life.”
The charity added: “For 15 years Kris had been living with secondary breast cancer. She hasn’t lost a battle, she wasn’t in a fight and she certainly wouldn’t want you to see her death as tragic. She was simply living. She was 38 and died with fulfilment and a heart full of love.
“Kris’ family have one request – for peace and privacy to allow them the time and space needed to process Kris’ death. We would like to thank our community for your love and messages of support and kindly ask that you respect the family’s wishes at this time.
“Please remember the amazing life Kris led and the things she achieved, but above all else honour her memory by checking your chest…it could just save your life.”
Many people and organisations shared tributes to Hallenga on social media, including cancer charities.
We want to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Kris Hallenga, founder of @CoppaFeelPeople. Her work to highlight the importance of checking your chest from a young age has impacted the lives of millions. https://t.co/JHZLKdBJMc
— Teenage Cancer Trust (@TeenageCancer) May 6, 2024
💔We're heartbroken to hear that Kris Hallenga, founder of @CoppaFeelPeople, has died. Kris was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2009 when she was just 23 and since then has been a tireless force for breast cancer awareness and early diagnosis. pic.twitter.com/eDO6KvapCN
— Breast Cancer Now (@BreastCancerNow) May 6, 2024
We’re incredibly saddened to hear that Kris Hallenga, founder of @CoppaFeelPeople, has died.
— Prevent Breast Cancer (@wearepreventBC) May 6, 2024
Thank you for tirelessly raising awareness of breast cancer and advocating for early diagnosis.
Everyone at Prevent Breast Cancer sends our love at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/AinUPvUsnZ
A fundraiser in celebration of Hallenga has also been launched.
