Herceptin campaigner loses cancer battle

9:06am Saturday 5th July 2008

COURAGEOUS cancer campaigner Alyson Porter has lost her battle against the disease.

The 47-year-old, who fought a battle with health bosses to be given the wonderdrug,' Herceptin, died surrounded by her family.

Her daughter, Michelle Dolan, aged 22, said: "My mum was such a happy person, no matter what happened in her life she always fought, was always cheerful and always had her faith.

"She was very family focused and always made the best of everything. She was inspirational and anyone who met her was touched by her warmth."

Mrs Porter, who married her husband Dave in a fairytale wedding a year ago, thought she had beaten her breast cancer after undergoing surgery and painful chemotherapy, followed by the Herceptin.

Last November she was told the cancer had returned in her hip but she underwent surgery and was given the all-clear.

Mrs Porter, who was a motorcycle fanatic, started to experience stomach pains in February, which doctors thought were ulcers caused by her medication. But last month she was given the devastating news the cancer had spread to her liver and was terminal.

Despite the news the brave mum-of-two continued to encourage other women to battle for drugs they were entitled to.

She said at the time: "I don't regret for one minute campaigning for the Herceptin. Undoubtedly, it's bought me extra time and that has been a real gift."

Mrs Porter, who recently moved from Bromley Cross to her dream home in Longridge, near Preston, was admitted to the Longridge Community Hospital.last Friday.

She was visited by family, including her husband and daughters, Michelle and Maria, aged 27, family friend Cheryl Walter, her sister and brother-in-law Helen and Mark Fernehough and mum Jean Carter.

On Saturday a group of her biker friends, who had built a special trike for her to ride, took the finished vehicle into the hospital grounds for her to see.

Miss Dolan, of Blackburn Road, Astley Bridge, said: "When the bike was brought to the hospital, even though she was very weak, she came to the window and raised her arms in a cheer. She had such an impact on everyone who met her, even if they had only known her for a short time.

"Fighting for Herceptin was so important to her because it bought her extra time, not only that it was her absolute belief that life was more important that money and that people should stand up for what they're entitled to."

A biker procession will lead Mrs Porter's motorcycle hearse before her funeral on Wednesday, which will be held at 12.45pm at the Knowle Green Congregational Church in Longridge.

The family want everyone to wear bright clothing to celebrate Mrs Porter's life. They have requested family flowers only. Donations can be made to Macmillan Cancer Care,

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