Breast cancer survivor couldn't find mastectomy swimwear - so she started her own business

A breast cancer survivor has turned her life-altering experience into an entrepreneurial success story by creating an inclusive swimwear brand designed specifically for women who have undergone mastectomies. Melanie Luxton-Brookes, 47, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2017 after discovering a lump in her left breast. Her treatment included a full mastectomy, breast reconstruction, and rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Once in remission a year later, Melanie and her husband Bruce, 57, planned a holiday abroad—her first since completing treatment. However, as she searched for mastectomy swimwear, Melanie struggled to find options that were both fashionable and functional. Mastectomy swimwear typically includes special features, such as armholes to conceal surgery scars and built-in pockets for breast forms, but Melanie discovered the market lacked stylish and affordable choices.

Determined to fill the gap, Melanie launched her own brand, Lady Survivors, to design swimwear that empowers women to feel confident and comfortable after surgery. “I was so excited to go on holiday back in 2018, but I couldn't find suitable swimwear—I was gutted," Melanie explained. "Everyone should feel seen through fashion. Wearing a swimsuit can already be stressful, and for women who’ve gone through a mastectomy, it can feel even more daunting. I want to help others feel comfortable and confident.".

Although Lady Survivors remains a small business, the impact has been profound. “The feedback from women who tell me they’ve fallen in love with my garments—and themselves—never fails to make me emotional," she added. Melanie’s journey as an entrepreneur reflects findings from recent research by Virgin Money, which examined the triggers that inspire people to launch small businesses. The study of 500 small business owners revealed that identifying a gap in the market—like Melanie did—motivates 12% of entrepreneurs to take the leap.

The research showed that 84% of entrepreneurs act on their business idea within a year, with 35% starting within a month of identifying their trigger. Nearly seven in ten found their work-life balance improved after starting their business, and over half said they could never imagine working for someone else again. Melanie is part of a broader wave of entrepreneurs like Oladele Ajaui, 40, from London, who turned adversity into opportunity. After being made redundant as a financier in 2017, Oladele retrained as a plumber and launched his own business, Deka Plumbing, which achieved a turnover of £400,000 last year.

For Oladele, entrepreneurship allowed him to combine his trade skills with the ambition he developed in the corporate world, while also enjoying more family time and flexibility. Both Melanie and Oladele are examples of how confidence and resilience play crucial roles in overcoming life’s challenges to create something meaningful. To support business owners like Melanie and Oladele, Virgin Money has introduced the M Account for Business, a fee-free, digital-first current account offering entrepreneurs tools like cashback on debit card purchases and support with day-to-day banking.