29/10/2020
Did you know that Men can also suffer from breast cancer. Please be aware of the signs & symptoms. If you do have any concerns then we urge you to contact your local GP and to keep checking your breasts regular (both men and women). Have a read of Dougs story below.
"I had no idea before being diagnosed, that men could get breast cancer. My partner had no idea. My friends, my family, seemingly no one was aware that men could get it, yet there I was with a cancerous lump in my chest."
Doug was diagnosed in 2012, just three days before his fiftieth birthday. He shares how his experience inspired him and others to set up an event, bringing together other men who have also been diagnosed:
"A few days after I was diagnosed I visited my friend Steve whoβs the lead singer of the band I used to play in. He played me a song that he had just written about male breast cancer. He wanted to help me in my quest to raise awareness. I had to fight back the tears as the emotion overcame me at such a thoughtful gesture.
"I was determined that some good would come out of my journey, so I started my mission to spread breast cancer awareness in men.
"As it was and is still so rare in men, itβs hard to find other men talk to who have also been diagnosed. I had so much love and support at the time of my diagnosis, but not having contact with male peers left an isolating gap in my support system.
"Thatβs why, with the invaluable help and support from various people and organisations including psychologist Dr Kerry Quincey, Iβm pleased to be launching the UK's first Male Breast Cancer Virtual Meet-Up (VMU).
"The VMU officially launches on Thursday 22nd October at 8pm (UK time) and is open to any man who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. It will then be a monthly event, on the fourth Thursday of every month.
"I know men can be afraid to ask for advice, but I want to show others that sharing your story is a real plus. Sharing experiences, giving advice and just chatting about anything as men do, is something that myself and others have been missing. As we launch and continue on with the VMU, we hope to improve breast cancer awareness in men."
