Winchester MP, Steve Brine, has paid tribute to a leading breast cancer campaigner who has died aged 38.
Kris Hallenga was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer a decade ago and subsequently founded the charity CoppaFeel.
It seeks to teach young women (and me) about cancer - and in particular boob - awareness.
The MP, who lost his own Mum to breast cancer in 2003, became friends with Kris and in 2014 brought the campaigner to Winchester to talk to young people.
He says; “I am absolutely gutted to hear of Kris’ death. She was a good friend and a lovely lady who turned the most horrible thing into a force for good. Her work through CoppaFeel has saved countless lives.
“We became friends shortly after I was first elected and I asked her if she’d come to Winchester and speak to school pupils at a morning assembly. She said yes but only if we could do all of them!
“So we addressed morning assemblies at Kings, Westgate and Henry Beaufort and she told her story. You could hear a pin drop.
“The way this glamorous young woman communicated with young people was something to behold. I know, because I still meet people who attended that day, her message was heard.
“Rest in peace Kris and thank you for the lives you have saved.”
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Pictured: The group at Westgate, talking at Henry Beaufort and the chatting outside (filmed by the local TV crew) at Kings.
