We hosted a discussion on the impact of cancer and how important it is to detect signs early. The event, which was held in London, was raw and relevant covering an often taboo subject.
Cancer survivors Rose Thompson, Kenneth Campbell and Mary Warrener empowered the audience with their personal perspectives. Although from different backgrounds, it was clear that cancer does not discriminate and that there is a common ground between many who experience it. The speakers highlighted the importance of sharing and learning from one another.
Rose repeated the catchphrase ‘know your breasts’ pointing that they go all the way up to the shoulders, which many did not know. She emphasised the need to be aware of the signs of cancer. An example mentioned was how important it was to recognise that people who had worked with harmful materials in the construction industry may be more prone to certain cancers in the future.
Maria Caulfield, MP, Deputy Chair, APPG on Ireland in Britain and a previous oncology nurse gave up to date information on the topic saying “9 out of 10 lumps found in breasts are benign.”
It’s known that the Irish community, particularly the working class, generally shield over their anxiety and ‘hope for the best’. But the key message ringing loud and clear from the speakers was that we need to talk more. It is everyone’s responsibility to encourage people to get screened early, as that can be all the difference in surviving.
Ellen Stafford, Director of Irish Community Services in Greenwich, said that Irish in Britain’s encouragement to dig deeper into the impact of cancer on ethnic communities was what motivated the team to start the Irish Community Services Self–Help Group Project. She said: “Irish in Britain highlighted the problems the Irish community were having with cancer, and it made us think and look at our data more and get more involved in it.”
Kenneth , a Prostate Cancer survivor, said that it was very important especially for men to talk about this subject and encouraged them to go to their doctor if they notice unusual signs.
Although people don’t always want to speak about cancer, support can also come from just being together with others who are experiencing it too.
The survivors now run their own support groups helping others diagnosed with cancer.
We’ll be campaigning for cancer and other health awareness days in 2017, follow us on Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date. You can also see Dr Mary Tilki’s advice on cancer for more information.