Four year ago, Lorraine, then aged 47, was diagnosed with breast cancer, despite previous consultations that hadn’t revealed anything sinister.

Now, the mother of two grown-up children is using her experiences to act as an ambassador and encourage others to attend for screening.

ln fact, Lorraine was one of a number of women who recently attended a celebratory luncheon to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Action Cancer’s breast screening service.

The women pledged to become ambassadors of breast screening in their own communities – telling neighbours, friends, colleagues and relatives of their experiences and encouraging them to be proactive with their health.

Prior to her diagnosis in October 2004, Lorraine had always been very cancer aware. Her parents had both died of bowel cancer, as well as her only sister, Joan, at the age of 48.

“Because of my family history I was being screened regularly for bowel cancer. But I never thought about breast cancer. It seemed to come out of nowhere,” said Lorraine.

When Lorraine discovered some lumps early in 2004, she had them checked out and was relieved when the results came back as clear.

uneasy

However, several months later she still felt uneasy. “I knew something was not right. I could tell from looking at the shape of my breast that it was different - it seemed to be puckered. Even though previous tests hadn’t shown anything, I still didn’t feel happy,” she said

“I was outside the NHS age for screening, which is 50-64, but I knew that I was inside the 40-49 bracket for screening with Action Cancer, so I went ahead and contacted them.”

Within a week, Lorraine had been given a mammogram in “very nice, relaxing environment” at Action Cancer House in Belfast. The results were referred by the charity to the City Hospital where it was confirmed that Lorraine had breast cancer.

She was referred back to Craigavon Area Hospital where she underwent a mastectomy in early November followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy and, later, reconstructive surgery. “I was looked after very well at Craigavon Hospital and I am still screened on a yearly basis,” she said.

Since then, Lorraine hasn’t looked back. “I remain very positive and I tell as many people as I can about Action Cancer. I really don’t know where I would be today if I hadn’t gone for the screening.

“I want as many women as possible to be aware that the Action Cancer screening service is available if you fall outside the NHS age bracket.

“I would also urge women to look at their own breasts in the mirror and to be aware of the look and feel of them. It is also important to check the armpits. Always be on the look-out for any changes, whether it is a lump, veins that stand out more in one breast than the other, puckering, or discharge from the nipple.

“If you see or feel something that is not normal for you, then act quickly, and don’t be afraid to contact your GP straight away.