Before my Mum was diagnosed with breast cancer I used to screen (reluctantly) every 2 or more years apart. Mum’s cancer was detected too late as the common belief or even superstition of her generation and some of her European friends was that “older women don’t need to screen”. The cancer spread and today one of my biggest regrets is that we didn’t follow up to give her a chance to beat it as it was doable at the early stage.

Then my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer but she wasn’t going to let it win. After a surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, she is enjoying life with now only annual check-ups. Her recovery screamed: IT CAN BE DONE!

I’ve been screening once a year around my birthday and it’s almost like celebrating another birthday for me – I’m alive – the biggest gift money can’t buy.

There are 730 days in 2 years and if we can’t find 15 minutes (even if it is 60 minutes!) for a free of charge, available near your home potentially lifesaving screening – then we don’t value not just our own lives but don’t care about how much this “lack of time” can affect our loved ones. Your children and grandchildren don’t want to talk to your photo – they would rather hold your hand, hear your voice and pop over for an amazing culinary creation you are most likely making for them when they come around.

You want to be here for family birthdays, you want to be here to watch your children or grandchildren growing up so what’s an hour of your life worth against the rest of your life? It’s your decision – make it whilst you can. Happy another Birthday!