Kate Rackham, a beloved teacher and mother of two from Manchester, UK, announced her own death on social media after a courageous battle with incurable secondary breast cancer. Known on Twitter (now X) as “Teacher with cancer,” Kate shared her journey with 14,700 followers, offering an intimate look into her fight against the disease.
In her final tweet, Kate wrote: “If you’re reading this, it means I have died. But do not cry for me. I have lived my life on my own terms, the way I have wanted to. I joined X because I needed an outlet; what I got was so much more. You made me feel validated in my feelings and much less alone. Thank you.”
The post garnered an outpouring of condolences and gratitude from her followers. One person commented: “I am so sorry. @kate_rackham was a huge inspiration and comfort to me as I tried to balance being a teacher and mother with everything cancer throws at you. I am so glad we all helped you feel less alone – you did the same for so many of us.”
Another follower, Winnie, who is battling stage four cancer, added: “When my time comes, I can but hope I display the dignity and strength of character you did. Much love and condolences to your family and friends.”
Kate was not only a teacher but also the co-founder and trustee of the Fighting to be Heard Foundation, a volunteer-led organization dedicated to raising awareness and offering support to those living with incurable secondary breast cancer. Her profile on X read: “Diagnosed aged 39 with oestrogen-receptive breast cancer. I had no risk factors. My aim is to raise awareness in a bid that no one else goes through what we are all going through. And if they are, that there is a strong network of support to help.”
In her penultimate post, Kate shared her return home: “Thank you so much for your lovely messages. Quick update… Firstly, I’m sorry for the lack of communication on here recently. The last week or so has been surreal and overwhelming. Hospital stays, illness, procedures, uncertainty, and then hearing the words ‘There is nothing more we can do’. I needed a bit of time.”
She continued: “I’m now home, where I want to be. With Mark and the girls. Surrounded by love, family and friends. Everyone is rallying around and I have so much support. Despite everything, I feel blessed.”
Kate leaves behind her husband Mark and their two daughters, Ruby and Nancy. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
