Brave mum beats cancer to take up photography degree

Lyndsey Blezard (40) was diagnosed with breast cancer six years ago.

After undergoing successful chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment, Lyndsey wanted to go back to college to study photographybut the thought of being a mature student terrified her.

Thankfully, her supportive son Leon (20) encouraged her to fulfil her dreams of returning to her studies.

She said: “I have always thought about going back to college but there was never a good time. As time went by, it became more and more daunting. When I had finished all my treatment my son said stop thinking about it and go and do it. He told me that if I can get through the treatment for breast cancer, then going back to college will be easy.”

Lyndsey, of Wordsworth Avenue, Padiham, signed up to the Level 3 Photography course at Blackburn College.

Lyndsey, who celebrated her ‘five years all clear’ this month, said: “College gave me something to focus on and new skills to learn. I have gone from being a mum to being a full-time college student, learning about something I love.”

In September the Burnley FC fan will be continuing her studies at the University Centre at Blackburn College, studying a foundation degree in photography.

For her final project she used her hometown as inspiration calling it ‘Padiham – not just a through road’.

She said: “I like documentary style photography and photographing the mills. The pictures tell an incredible story without the need for words.”