Mum who lost nose to cancer wins bravery award

Exeter's The Family Law Company has announced Vikki Feltham as this year’s Everyday Bravery recipient, acknowledging her courage in daily life.

Vikki was chosen by an independent panel who were struck by the resilience and determination shown in her nomination.

Vikki’s life changed beyond recognition when she lost her nose to head and neck cancer. While this could have led her to step back from the world, she instead showed immense bravery by raising awareness of a cancer that is rarely spoken about, despite being the seventh most common. Vikki recognised that there was very little support available for patients with nasal cancer, particularly those facing life-changing surgery.

The nomination outlined how Vikki has worked to dismantle stigma, normalise ‘visible difference’ and make nasal cancer better understood by those who had never heard of it. Realizing that national charities were not addressing this cancer, she approached The Swallows Head and Neck Cancer Charity, partnering with them to broaden their reach and speak directly to patients who often feel forgotten.

Vikki went on to work with Cancer Research and Macmillan Voices, giving insights from the perspective of a younger person affected by a cancer more commonly seen in older patients. She sits on the steering group for the Wessex Cancer Alliance, supports Helping 2 Care by championing tech innovation for patient wellbeing, and is an Ambassador for Changing Faces, representing thousands of people living with visible difference caused by cancer and surgery.

The nomination explained how Vikki’s message is consistent and powerful: “Take up space, don’t apologise for existing, and let your identity expand instead of shrink. Vikki’s bravery isn’t quiet, and it isn’t loud. It’s something deeper: the willingness to stand in full view, as she is, so others can find themselves in her story.”

The selection panel included sponsors from the local business community: Yellowtail Financial Planning, Barc Architects and Insight6, along with key personnel from The Family Law Company.

Business Development Director Kerry England, who created the campaign, said: “It was incredibly difficult to choose as all the nominations were both moving and humbling. However, Vikki’s nomination and story of bravery left a lasting impression on the panel. Her decision to step forward into the light and work to make sure that more patients receive the support and care they need, whilst also rebuilding her career and raising a toddler, is truly inspiring.”

Vikki will enjoy a two-night break at Bovey Castle with full use of the hotel’s leisure facilities and a choice of activities during her stay. The break was generously donated by the hotel for the second year running. When she heard the news, Vikki said: “Thank you so much for this honour! I'm so pleased to hear that my story has the power to impact people. I can't wait to enjoy Bovey Castle and all they have to offer!”

Two additional nominees will receive a beautiful, curated Bespoke + Local gift box of luxury Devon made items, and all of the nominees will receive a bar of chocolate from Exeter chocolatier, Nicola’s.