“Your gift gives families like mine hope” – Deborah’s Story

Deborah Huggons, 68, from Devon, still remembers the day in January 2007 that changed everything. After discovering a lump in her breast, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “There was no family history – it was such a shock,” Deborah shares. The months that followed were tough: an excision biopsy, mastectomy, and exhausting rounds of chemotherapy. “The treatment regime affects the whole family,” she recalls. “Esme and Ewan were so young. It took strength from us all.”

Yet, through it all, hope came in the form of research, which was made possible in part by people who chose to leave a gift in their Will to Cancer Research UK, with gifts in Wills funding over a third of the charity’s work.

Deborah was offered the opportunity to take part in the Cancer Research UK–funded TACT2 clinical trial, which compared different chemotherapy combinations to improve treatment after surgery. The trial helped Deborah navigate a difficult period - “Being part of the trial gave me focus at a time when everything felt uncertain,” she says. Beyond the trial, Cancer Research UK’s website also became a vital source of trusted information. “Learning how much research they’d done made me feel more confident about my diagnosis,” Deborah explains.

Every breakthrough, every trial, and every ounce of reassurance is built on decades of research, and much of that research has only been possible thanks to gifts in Wills. Deborah’s story is one of thousands that remind us that a gift in your Will isn’t just a donation, it’s a legacy of hope for generations to come. 

Looking back, Deborah is deeply grateful. “Cancer Research UK’s support helped me feel less alone and more hopeful,” she reflects. Inspired, she decided to leave a gift in her Will to Cancer Research UK. “We know how vital these gifts are to help future generations,” Deborah says. Her message to those who’ve already left a gift is simple: “Thank you, from me and my family. These gifts mean everything to people affected by cancer, now and in the future.”

Through sharing her story and leaving a gift in her Will, Deborah feels like she’s “giving something back. Cancer Research UK’s work is only possible because supporters like me and researchers come together. To anyone considering leaving a gift in their Will, Deborah offers heartfelt encouragement: “It’s an incredibly kind gesture. It will help our children, and their children live longer, better lives and will really make a difference.”