A mini field of bright pink silhouettes outside the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute (MNCCI) provided a moving tribute to local women who have been lost to breast cancer.
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Thanks to the efforts of the Port Macquarie Hastings Breast Cancer Support Group, more than 100 pink lady cut-outs were placed on the lawn in front of MNCCI last week to raise awareness of breast cancer, coinciding with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The local Breast Cancer Support Group has been displaying the mini field of women on behalf of the Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) for many years, to remember those who have been lost to breast cancer, particularly the members of the support group who passed away in the previous 12 months.
Breast Cancer Support Group member Judith Hutchesson has been part of the group since her own breast cancer diagnosis 14 years ago.
“The local support group, and Breast Cancer Network Australia, provide such wonderful support to women during their illness and afterwards,” Mrs Hutchesson said.
“Our group is made up of women who have had their own experience with breast cancer, so the empathy and understanding provided through the group is really valuable.”
Mid North Coast Local Health District Breast Cancer Support Nurse Joanne Woodlands said the mini field of women was one of BCNA’s main breast cancer awareness activities, and was an effective way to encourage early screening and diagnosis.
“We do see a lot of people coming in for screening after Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we know that detecting breast cancer early means women have better treatment options and ultimately a better outcome,” Ms Woodlands said.
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in NSW, with one in eight being diagnosed in their lifetime. It is also the second most common cause of cancer death among NSW women. On the Mid-North Coast, around 220 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and around 35 women die of the disease.
There are BreastScreen Services available in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour all year round. Women can make appointments to attend any BreastScreen Service.