Cancer is a group of diseases that can cause almost any sign or symptom. The signs and symptoms will depend on where the cancer is, how big it is, and how much it affects the organs or tissues. If a cancer has spread, signs or symptoms may appear in different parts of the body. As a cancer tumour grows, it can begin to push on nearby organs, blood vessels, and nerves. This pressure causes some of the signs and symptoms of cancer. Before diagnosis, sufferers can experience unexplained weight loss, fever, fatigue, pain, skin changes, sores that do not heal, unusual bleeding and much more.
Here is Yvonne’s story. Yvonne was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 and underwent three lumpectomies, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
She has been involved in a number of awareness campaigns, including the television advert for the Bad Day campaign in 2009 and a glamorous photo-shoot for Breast Cancer Awareness in 2008.
She has also raised money for Cancer Research UK by cycling across India and running the New York marathon.
Yvonne said she enjoyed sharing her story as it was good for people to hear about positive experiences: 'I have benefited from the research that is going on to modernise and update treatments, so I am happy to do anything to help, and if one person hears that there is hope and life after cancer, it is all worth it.'
Cancer Research UK are currently trying to find the cure for cancer and develop newer, kinder treatments. Their hard work and dedication has led them to helping double the cancer survival rates in just 40 years. Every step they take towards beating cancer relies on every pound donated. By making a donation you too could save lives. Together we can beat cancer – the sooner the better.
Thank you for reading my blog; I would be very grateful if you would answer these few questions using the comments box, please can you tell me where you come from i.e. your hometown and country (if not UK):
- Had you ever heard of ‘Cancer Research UK’ before reading this blog?
- Do you now feel more informed about their amazing work and the devastating consequences of cancer?
- Would you now consider donating or helping Cancer Research UK by doing things such as taking part in the Race for Life or setting up a cake stall etc.?
Maggie