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Leeds Beckett graduate aims high with breast cancer study
Lucy King, 21, from Chesterfield, has graduated from Leeds Beckett University with a first class BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology. Her dissertation, which focused on women with breast cancer and how media and society impact their views on their own bodies as breast cancer changes them, will now be presented to Breast Cancer Care, who have invited Lucy to discuss her findings with their team at the charity’s London HQ.
The study reveals how women discuss their bodies throughout breast cancer, and provides vital insight into what they feel and how other women support them. It found that women are heavily influenced by societal expectations and often struggle to accept their new bodies against the standard; but with the emotional and practical support of other women, many are able to find innovative ways to adapt to the changes.
Lucy explained: “I think there is a lot to be learnt from the findings, about acceptance, empathy and how small supportive acts can make a huge impact to these women. It’s a real privilege to be able to share my studies with Breast Cancer Care, and I hope that my findings can make a tangible difference to the emotional support of women with breast cancer in this particular area.
“Completing my degree with a first is a huge achievement. Throughout my time at university I, like many others, have battled bouts of poor mental health and depression, and at times graduation seemed an unreachable goal. But with the help of the university wellbeing team and a lot of perseverance, I am over the moon to say I did it.”
Lucy is now working towards the publication of her dissertation findings in a peer reviewed journal, and looking further ahead is hoping to continue her psychosocial oncology research at Leeds Beckett through studying for a postgraduate qualification.
Speaking about Lucy, Dr Trish Holch, Senior Lecturer in the School of Social Sciences, said: “I am delighted that Lucy has achieved her ultimate goal at Leeds Beckett University by graduating with a first in Psychology. She has shown true strength and determination throughout her studies, and to be recognised by a prestigious breast cancer charity for her dissertation findings is testament to the passion she put into it.
“Leeds Beckett has a strong track record of graduates who produce groundbreaking research. We hope Lucy continues to go from strength to strength in her path after university.”