Fylde coast cancer survivor backs World Cancer Day

The 62-year-old cancer survivor is able to spend time with her family and doing the things she enjoys – like reading bed-time stories to her grandchildren, after her cancer was picked up and treated early, thanks to a routine mammogram.

While the news was a huge shock for Pam, who lives in Marton, doctors reassured her it was caught early.

The mum-of-three underwent surgery and radiotherapy, but has made a great recovery. Further tests of the lymph nodes which were removed showed the illness had not spread. And that’s why Pam – who has 10 grandchildren – is supporting Cancer Research UK’s campaign for World Cancer Day. She is urging everyone on the Fylde coast to join her in wearing a Cancer Research UK Unity Band with pride, on February 4, to show solidarity with those affected by the disease, as well as raising money for vital research.

Pam said: “I’m still here today, enjoying doing all the things that are so dear to me. That’s why I want everyone in Blackpool to wear a Cancer Research UK Unity Band on World Cancer Day – it’s a fantastic opportunity to raise money for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving research. Just by wearing a Unity Band, everyone can help make a real difference to people with cancer.”

The day Pam was diagnosed with breast cancer, a cousin in London was given the same news. And due to a history of cancer in the family, Pam’s children may now have genetic testing.

Pam said: “It was an absolute shock when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, but I feel fortunate the cancer was detected at such an early stage it was treatable and the treatment was straightforward. I am back at work now at Trebaron Garden Centre and feeling fine. I know only too well the importance of research.

“My family means the world to me and it’s a joy being able to read to my grandchildren and have the chance to watch them grow up.”

Pam and her family have already been doing their bit to put something back and to help others.

In September, Pam’s daughter, Sarah Addison, rallied together a 10-strong gang of family members and friends to take part in Cancer Research UK’s Pretty Muddy on Lawson’s Field. She and her cousin Donna Rainey together with Pam, Carol Pocock, Casey Addison and Makenna Addison also took part in the 5k Race For Life on The Promenade.

The Unity Band features a classic reef knot design to symbolise the strength of people coming together to unite against cancer. The bands are available in three colours – pink, navy and blue.

One in two people born after 1960 in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime and although survival has doubled since the early 1970s, Cancer Research UK says it needs everyone to act to help speed up progress and see more people survive.

Jane Bullock, Cancer Research UK spokesman for Lancashire, said: “We are very grateful to Pam and her family for their support and showing how important it is for everyone to wear a Unity Band on World Cancer Day.

“By making a donation of just £2, people in Blackpool and the Fylde coast will be able to help fund crucial research to help give more men, women and children more precious time. More bands worn means more lives saved.”

Marked on February 4, World Cancer Day is designed to raise awareness of cancer and to promote its prevention, detection and treatment. Bands are available in all Cancer Research UK shops and online at cruk.org/worldcancerday