Denise Coates - Never Give Up (Social Activist From The UK)

My advice would be to steer clear of negative news and publicity but focus on what works for you.

1. Tell us more about yourself and your life.

I’m Denise Coates, a Breast Cancer Survivor. I’m passionate about awareness and I’ve written a short memoir self-help guide called Conquering Cancer Together. 

I consider myself a good all-rounder and since my very earlier years, that has put me in good stead.  I would describe myself as pretty outgoing and I’m an Optimist…My interests are around philosophy and psychology,  I’m open to self-development - I believe in the Law Of Attraction.  I follow people who are uplifting and inspiring. Authors like Eckhart Tolle, Matt Haig, Vex king and Louise Hay. I love to read and write, broadening my mindset horizons. 

Since having breast cancer, I believe in an integrated approach to life. Balance is the key for me.  So, I have found that a healthy mind benefits from, exercise (for me that’s jogging  Pilates and Swimming) Good food, preferably organic, but not always. Thinking positive thoughts to keep a healthy mind.  I have done practitioner courses on CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) and NLP - Neuro, linguistics, and programming. 

Reframing and keeping a check on the guiding principles. 

I currently live with my partner of 30 years and our son, Jamie. Naturally, I love to do work which gives back and has a soulful purpose. I call this my dream work. My mother said to me… treat people as you would like to be treated. So, that’s one of my golden rules! 

2. What led you into social activism? 

When I was 54 I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer! Because my cancer was caught early, I decided to create ‘awareness’ and this is where social media plays a huge part in spreading the word.

3. What is that one cause you care deeply about and why?

During treatment for breast cancer, my biggest goal was for our future generations. So, I campaigned with my local MP in our Government; to get health awareness in our National curriculum. 

In the UK our children are taught about health awareness. Including prevention and knowing your body. Since then I’m passionate about helping charities and cancer research. Hoping all the time that kinder treatment options are available. Plus I’m passionate about creating awareness of early cancer detection - may save a life. 

4. If one wants to contribute and make a difference in social causes, how can one do it?

In my humble opinion, it’s all down to volunteering. Any charitable organisation will offer volunteering job roles.  This is a great inroad to understand what making a difference means. Decide which cause you want to support and learn about the goals of the charity. You can really learn a lot this way and your contribution will indeed, help others! 

5. Who is your role model and why?

Dame Deborah James a.k.a Bowelbabe.  Because she was a trailblazer in creating awareness here in the UK. She raised 7.5 million pounds and selflessly worked to change the mindsets of people's lives.  I’m so pleased she became a Dame before her passing. Leaving an incredible legacy and changing the stigma around bowel cancer.

6. What are some of the challenges and roadblocks you have faced along your journey?

I think for me it’s been trying to transfer my skills. When I went through my breast cancer treatment, I so wanted to work in the charity sector. Volunteering was a way around this but I knew I had more to offer.  I won’t give up on this as maybe one day, I’ll partner with a like-minded organisation or work in this field.  

7. Your opinion about social media activism.

My thoughts about social media activism are based on my previous marketing knowledge. I understand that having digital social platforms, enables people to have a much further reach than before. #tagging has introduced me to new people and organisations that I may not know. 

When I have put my content online, I appreciate that the public comments can be either good (or) not so good!  We are all entitled to our opinions.  When I write it comes with good intentions and I often try to put myself in the reader's shoes.  

It has created amazing influencers that can be of great benefit! My advice would be to steer clear of negative news and publicity but focus on what works for you. It’s a great platform for me! I can share my story!

- Denise Coates (Linkedin)

- Interviewed by Deshna Jain