Byron Bay mum, business founder, and stage 4 breast cancer patient Holly Schleich continues to turn one of life’s greatest challenges into a mission of hope.
In early July Holly, founder of Eye of Horus Cosmetics (www.eyeofhoruscosmetics.com/pages/cancer-chicks), and her friends Sami Maloney and Kirsty Cane, and supporters, ran in the Gold Coast Marathon (4 and 5 July) to raise funds and awareness for Cancer Chicks (www.cancerchicks.org.au).
Holly, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022. After undergoing a double mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries, she was devastated to learn last year that her cancer had returned as stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.
Rather than allowing the diagnosis to define her, Holly has continued to lead her business while dedicating herself to supporting other young women facing cancer.
‘We hope to inspire our communities while raising vital funds for Cancer Chicks, a charity that provides practical and emotional support to young women navigating cancer,’ Holly told The Echo.
Cancer Chicks – you’re not alone
‘When you’re diagnosed with cancer, your world changes overnight. But one thing I’ve learnt is that community has the power to carry you through your darkest moments. Cancer Chicks gave me hope, connection and a reminder that I wasn’t facing this alone.
‘Living with stage 4 breast cancer has completely changed my perspective. Every kilometre felt like a celebration of what my body is still capable of, despite everything it has been through. Crossing the finish line with my best mate Carly and surrounded by friends, family and our Cancer Chicks community was very emotional. There were definitely tears, but they were happy tears filled with gratitude,’ she said.
‘The biggest challenge was balancing training with ongoing treatment. There were days I questioned whether I’d make it to the start line, but the support of our community carried me through. Seeing so many people wearing our EOH x Cancer Chicks merchandise, running alongside us and donating to the cause reminded me that even the hardest journeys don’t have to be walked alone.
Resilience and friendship
‘What I enjoyed most was the connection. It wasn’t just about one person running a race it was hundreds of people coming together to raise awareness, the vibe was high.’
Cancer Chicks was founded by Rikki Stern in 2019 after she was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 20. She launched a small online support group for young women with cancer to connect – today it is a growing registered charity that provides support services and a strong community to connect with, helping empower young women with severe illness.
Holly says she was joined by women whose own cancer journeys have inspired thousands throughout the Northern Rivers community.
‘Together, they represent resilience, friendship and the extraordinary impact of women supporting one another through adversity,’ said Holly.
‘This event wasn’t about running our fastest race. It was about running for every woman currently sitting in a hospital chair, waiting for results, navigating treatment, or wondering what tomorrow will bring. We run for those who can’t.’
‘Our hope is that this story reminds people that even in the hardest circumstances, kindness and community can create something incredibly powerful,’ Holly said.
‘As difficult as my journey has been, it has also shown me the very best in people. Every donation, every message of encouragement, and every person who chooses to support this cause reminds us that none of us has to walk through hardship alone.’
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