Her diagnosis shattered society’s misconception that it is just women over the age of 60 who are diagnosed with breast cancer.

The young mother’s world was forever changed when she visited her general practitioner (GP) for the results of her biopsy.

Mrs Braid found a lump in her breast in June last year and immediately made an appointment with her GP. 

She described the four-day wait for the results of the biopsy as “torturous”.

“I went with the idea that it would be nothing sinister,” she said.

“But life as we knew it was changed forever.”

Mrs Braid had surgery to remove the cancer then six rounds of chemotherapy and six-and-half weeks of radiotherapy, which she finished in February.

She has been placed on ongoing hormone blocking therapy for the next five years and the greatest risk of a recurrence for Mrs Braid is within the next two years. 

“It’s still with you every day,” she said.

“I don't think it’s an experience anyone can completely leave behind them.

“However, I don't allow cancer to define me.”

The hormone therapy means that Mrs Braid’s body has been shocked into early menopause and she is still experiencing side affects.

But her attitude has been unaffected and she’s recently taken on a volunteer position with the Cancer Council.

“The active treatment phase is an extremely lonely place,” she said.

“This is my re-entry into life.”

This is the first time that Mrs Braid has spoken publicly about her experience and she is hoping that she can inspire other young women to be vigilant when it comes to their health.

“Young women need to be in tune with their bodies,” she said.

“If you know your body, you can be more naturally aware if something goes wrong.

“Women, young woman in particular, need to understand that it can happen.

"Getting past your treatment also doesn't mean everything goes back to normal.

“Anyone who has battled or been directly affected by cancer in their lifetime I'm sure would agree with me. 

“Having hope is an amazing gift that drives you forward and allows you to happily participate in life”