South Tyneside mum's cancer diagnosis prompts awareness party

Diane Dickinson was left shocked and heartbroken when her mum Janice attended her last-ever routine mammogram only for the results to reveal she had cancer.

The 70-year-old had been diagnosed with a type that could only have been detected through the screening programme.

She is currently undergoing radiotherapy to fight the condition.

In a cruel twist of fate for the family, Diane’s aunt was also diagnosed with breast cancer after she was prompted to make an appointment, due to being over the age limit for routine follow-ups, after her sister’s news.

The NHS Breast Screening Programme currently invites all women aged between 50 and 70 for screening every 3 years, after 70, it is up to the individual to make an appointment.

To raise awareness of the condition, the importance of breast screening and funds for Breast Cancer Awareness Diane, is throwing a ‘pink’ party on Saturday at the Whiteleas Social Club, 1pm til 5pm

Diane, from Biddick Hall, said: “I had thought about a coffee morning, but that just isn’t me.

“I saw the pink party advertised so I looked into it and realised that was more me.

“When someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, it’s horrendous. It’s not just the cancer, it’s all the treatments, the chemotherapy, it’s really awful.”

During the event pink-inspired items will be available for sale, activities, as well as raffle prizes up for grabs.