Jenni Supports UCF Campaign

One of radio and television's most respected broadcasters, Jenni Murray, flew into Belfast today to be the guest speaker at the Ulster Cancer Foundation's (UCF) annual Think Pink! luncheon, which celebrates life after breast cancer.

The event, held at the Europa Hotel Belfast, is to help raise awareness and funds to support local women with breast cancer. Around 1,000 women in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with the disease every year.

Guest speaker, Jenni Murray, is a presenter, journalist and author, recognised for her trademark wit and wisdom as well as presenting BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour for nearly 20 years. Jenni was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 and spoke publicly on her radio show about her battle with the disease.

Arlene Spiers, Chief Executive of UCF - who was diagnosed with breast cancer herself earlier this year - said: "We are delighted that Jenni joined us today to celebrate the strength and courage of so many women in Northern Ireland who are living with breast cancer.

"Jenni is tremendous advocate for breast awareness. Given her own personal experience with the disease she is, in particular, keen to encourage local women to attend their screening appointment when invited.

"All women in Northern Ireland aged 50-64 years of age are invited for breast screening every three years. However, as the screening takes place across Northern Ireland in a three-year cycle, some women may be 53 years of age before they are called for their first screening appointment.

"In these circumstances, it becomes even more important that women know what is normal for them and report any change to their doctor," she said, noting that the Think Pink! Campaign has focused on the importance of being breast aware.

"Working with our campaign sponsor MediCare Pharmacy Group we have been able to bring this message to the heart of communities across Northern Ireland," she continued.

"We have also held a series of breast awareness workshops, hosted at MediCare pharmacies, particularly aimed at women aged fifty years plus - the age range at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

"The workshops advise women about being breast aware, explaining what to look out for and encourages them to examine themselves and report any changes to their GP as well as attend their screening appointment when invited.

"Throughout the month of October, our Think Pink! Campaign has also sought to highlight the help that is available to women such as UCF support groups, bra and swimwear fitting service, counselling, peer volunteers, art therapy and creative writing and all funds raised from our Think Pink! Campaign is spent to ensure that our services for women with breast cancer, provided free of charge by UCF, continue," she concluded.

(BMcC)