YOUNG Islanders are to be encouraged to make checking for breast cancer a lifelong habit.
The charity ABC Jersey, which supports people with breast cancer, has teamed up with UK charity CoppaFeel! to put on a series of events at the beginning of next month to raise awareness of the disease and the support available.
The events include a fundraising quiz night on Tuesday 5 March at the Ambassadeur Hotel and an evening drop-in session at the Town Hall on Wednesday 6 March.
CoppaFeel!’s “Boobettes” – volunteers aged between 18 and 35 who have been affected by breast cancer – are to speak to young Islanders about their experiences as part of the initiative.
Rhiannon Murray, a CoppaFeel! volunteer, said their team was “excited” to visit the Island.
She added: “[The Boobettes’] stories inspire others to think differently about their bodies, to get to know ‘their normal’ now and make checking a lifelong habit, so that they can spot any changes in the future and be aware of the signs and symptoms.
“The aim of our Jersey roadshow is to really get this message out amongst Jersey’s young people. We want to encourage regular checking and make people feel empowered to get checked by a healthcare professional if they notice anything unusual.
“We have a lot to fit into our trip, but it’s going to have a huge impact and it will undoubtedly save lives.”
ABC Jersey treasurer Sue Frost said that raising awareness of the support offered by the charity was a priority for 2024.
She added: “We wish to reach all individuals that make up the diverse tapestry of our island.
“[People of] all ages, genders, and backgrounds need to know that they are not alone, that there is support, and that early detection makes such a difference.
“The CoppaFeel! team bring a fantastic energy and resource; their visit in March will be an exciting way to raise awareness.”
Details about the events are available at: abc.org.je/coppafeel.
Information about the quiz night can be found at: abc.org.je/events/fundraiser-quiz-night-with-coppafeel.
