"Early detection is crucial" - Janne Madsen on breast cancer battle

Last month, Janne Madsen's life took a drastic turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

The former Danish national team and Fortuna Hjørring player, who is also a graduate of the UEFA Executive Master for International Players (UEFA MIP), shares her personal journey and underscores the importance of early detection. She urges women to prioritise regular screenings, even if they feel perfectly healthy.

Breast cancer remains one of the most widespread cancers, affecting 2.3 million women globally in 2022 and leading to 670,000 deaths, according to the World Health Organization.

UEFA.com spoke to Janne about her journey and why she has chosen to speak out

Tell us about your journey with breast cancer...

It began with a mammography on 30 August, but the signs had been present for months. Since December 2023, I had noticed that my left nipple was turning inward. I knew this could indicate breast cancer, but I couldn’t feel anything unusual in my breast. It wasn’t until I received a message as a blood donor that my blood percentage had fallen below the normal level that I connected the dots and realised it might have something to do with my left breast. This caused me to make an appointment with my doctor.

During my visit, she immediately felt something hard above my left nipple and promptly referred me for further testing. She scheduled a mammography for the next day, setting in motion a whirlwind of emotions and events that would lead to a life-altering diagnosis.

After undergoing a mammography, ultrasound scan and biopsy, I faced a long wait for the results, which arrived on 6 September. That week felt like the longest of my life. I was scared, tormented by fears that I had waited too long, and that the cancer might have spread. I grappled with self-blame, questioning why I hadn’t sought medical help sooner.

When the results came in, the news was a mix of relief and apprehension.

I was given two options for treatment: breast-conserving surgery or a full mastectomy. The doctor recommended a mastectomy due to the size and location of the lump above my left nipple. For me, it wasn’t a difficult choice. The thought of something undesirable remaining in my chest was unbearable. I also considered the size of the nodule, which made me believe the cancer cells were likely in my tissue. I had no reason to question the doctor’s recommendation for a mastectomy.

Surgery took place on 18 September. Although the initial diagnosis had been somewhat reassuring, the anxiety remained. I couldn’t shake the worry that the laboratory results from the removed tissue would bring a different verdict.

Finally, on 1 October, I received the news I had been praying for: the operation went well, and there were no signs of cancer in my lymph nodes. Relief washed over me. Despite the positive outcome, I reflected on the month that had transformed my life. September had been an emotional rollercoaster, transitioning from feeling healthy one day to grappling with a life-threatening illness the next.

Now, there are a few months to wait for post-treatment chemotherapy. While my physical health remained intact, the emotional toll was profound. It’s a strange, surreal experience—knowing I had cancer but not feeling sick.

How did your background as an athlete shape your approach to battling it?

It instilled in me a strong sense of endurance and resilience. Just as I trained for competitions, I approached my cancer journey with a targeted mindset, setting clear goals for my treatment and recovery. I prioritised being physically active, eating healthy, and staying hydrated, focusing on what I can control rather than dwelling on what’s out of my hands. When faced with difficulties and resistance, I drew on my experience in sports to stay focused and maintain my determination, fighting through the challenges even when it hurts. This athletic mindset has been crucial in navigating the challenges of my diagnosis and treatment.

What message do you have for women about the importance of early detection?

My message to women is that early detection is crucial; the chance of being cured is significantly greater when cancer is identified at an early stage. In my case, waiting too long created a terrifying feeling that my life was no longer in my own hands. I was fortunate that my cancer was not aggressive, but not everyone is that lucky. If you notice something unusual in your body or if anything feels off, don’t hesitate – go to the doctor. Taking action early can make all the difference.

What advice would you give to someone who is recently diagnosed, especially women who are active in sports?

Lean on your network. Be open about your cancer; even though I’m a private person, sharing my journey on Facebook and Instagram has brought me incredible support. The heartfelt messages I received have uplifted my spirits and given me the energy to face my upcoming course of chemotherapy.

Connecting with others who have battled breast cancer has been invaluable – they’ve shared their experiences, insights, and encouragement. Don’t hesitate to reach out; many people want to help. It’s not always easy for me to ask for assistance, but I’ve learned that everyone is willing to lend a hand. Use your support system; it can make a significant difference in your journey ahead.

Why is it important for you to speak up?

Because I hope that by sharing my story, I can foster greater openness about having cancer. I wish I had received my doctor’s message sooner – that when the nipple starts to turn inward, it’s almost always breast cancer and rarely a benign lump.

Openness not only raises awareness but also empowers others. It's hard to understand something you have no knowledge of, and awareness can lead to proactive measures before it’s too late. While I couldn't have avoided breast cancer, I could have potentially prevented the lump from growing to four centimetres and, ultimately, avoided the need for a mastectomy. By speaking out, I aim to encourage others to be vigilant about their health and seek help when they notice changes.

Janne receives a pink jersey from her former club Fortuna Hjørring, which took part in the "Pink Saturday" campaign in Denmark, with players wearing pink.Bente Skjoldager Poder, Photographer, Fortuna Hjørring

How have you stayed connected to the sports community since your diagnosis?

I've stayed connected through my role as kit manager for the Danish women's national team. I’ve maintained contact with the association, receiving encouraging messages from both the staff and some of the players, which has meant a lot to me. I’ve sensed their genuine concern and support during this challenging time.

Despite my diagnosis, I have continued to do voluntary work for my former club whenever I had the opportunity to help. They have actively supported breast cancer awareness by participating in a campaign called Pink Saturday, where they wore pink match shirts. I had the honour of going onto the pitch before the match to receive a pink shirt, and the hospitality from my former club was heart-warming. It was a beautiful gesture that reinforced their support for me.

Did you find support from former teammates or fans?

I found immense support from former teammates and opponents who reached out with messages of encouragement, reminding me that I am not alone in this journey. Those who live nearby have been especially kind, inviting me to their homes for dinner and ensuring I stayed connected. They've offered their help whenever I needed it and made a conscious effort to get me out of my apartment. Their support has been invaluable, providing both comfort and a sense of community.