Breast cancer charity founder Kris Hallenga dies after living with illness for 15 years

'She died with fulfilment and a heart full of love'

Hallenga had been diagnosed with terminal breast cancer in 2009 when she was just 23 and lived with the illness for 15 years. During this time, she campaigned for breast cancer awareness and founded CoppaFeel to ensure breast cancers are diagnosed early and accurately. 

A statement on the charity's website said: "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."

The charity said: "Kris has reached millions of people with her message of health advocacy and empowerment, 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 a Times Best Selling book: Glittering a Turd.

"Kris’ life mission was that CoppaFeel! would no longer need to exist, with late diagnosis of breast cancer eradicated in her lifetime. We are committed to continuing Kris’ legacy, to ensure that everyone has the best chance of living a happy and healthy life."

Her family have asked for "peace and privacy to allow them the time and space needed to process Kris’ death."

The statement finished: "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."

A JustGiving page has been set up for people to donate to the charity in Kris' memory.

You can find the page by clicking here.