Hannah Whittall, a 33-year-old mother from Staffordshire, UK, tragically passed away from breast cancer, leaving behind her 11-year-old twin daughters, Isabelle and Emmy, orphaned. This devastating loss came just 18 months after the girls’ father succumbed to pneumonia, compounding their grief and leaving them in the care of their grandfather and his wife. Affectionately known as “super mum,” Hannah demonstrated immense strength and love throughout her battle with cancer, striving to shield her daughters from the harsh realities of her illness. Her courageous fight and unwavering dedication to her children have left an enduring legacy of love and resilience.
Hannah’s diagnosis came in January 2024, after discovering a lump under her arm. The diagnosis of Stage 3 breast cancer forced her to close her cleaning business and undergo grueling chemotherapy, which also induced early menopause. Determined to protect her daughters from worry, Hannah kept her diagnosis a secret, enduring the debilitating effects of treatment in private. She wore a wig to conceal her hair loss, ensuring that her daughters only saw her strength, not the toll the illness was taking. This act of selfless love underscores her commitment to preserving a sense of normalcy for her children during an incredibly difficult time.
In September 2024, after months of grueling treatment, Hannah received the joyous news that she was in remission. Finally able to share the truth with her daughters, she revealed the battle she had fought silently, a testament to her maternal love and protective instincts. This brief respite, however, was tragically short-lived. Just a month later, she received the devastating news that the cancer had returned, this time as Stage 4, and had spread to her bones.
The resurgence of the cancer marked a turning point in Hannah’s journey. After Christmas, her condition deteriorated rapidly, complicated by pneumonia, HMPV, and sepsis. Surrounded by her loving family, including her beloved daughters, Hannah passed away on January 14, 2025. Her passing marked the end of a courageous battle fought with unwavering love and resilience, leaving a void in the lives of those who knew and loved her.
A GoFundMe page established for Isabelle and Emmy has received an outpouring of support, raising over £38,500. This financial support will help secure their future and provide a degree of stability during this challenging period. The page serves as a tribute to Hannah’s enduring impact on those around her and the community’s desire to ensure her daughters’ well-being. It is a testament to the power of compassion and the legacy of love she left behind.
Hannah’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and awareness in the fight against breast cancer. While the majority of cases occur in women over 50, younger women can also be affected, highlighting the need for vigilance and regular check-ups. Common signs of breast cancer include lumps or thickened breast tissue, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, lumps or swelling in the armpits, dimpling of the breast skin, rashes around the nipple, and changes in nipple appearance. Seeking medical attention promptly upon noticing any of these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, potentially saving lives and mitigating the devastating impact of this disease. While Hannah’s story is one of profound loss, it also underscores the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.
