News: Club Marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, an international health campaign that’s held every year and aims to promote screening and prevention of the disease.

One in two of us will get cancer in our lifetimes. In the UK, one in seven women will get breast cancer, and around 400 men a year are also diagnosed with breast cancer.

The club and Trust marked the month with awareness sessions being held for staff and players, which were hosted by Kate Lewers, who volunteers for Coppafeel!, a charity which is dedicated to ensuring that all breast cancers are diagnosed early and accurately. 

The presentation covered Kate’s personal story, CoppaFeel! founder Kris Hallenga’s story, breast cancer facts and myths, signs and symptoms and the work of CoppaFeel! It also provided vital guidance on how to self-check. 

“I'm so pleased to have been able to spend a day involving two things I'm really passionate about – Watford FC and the CoppaFeel! message,” said Kate.

“All sessions were really well received, and I'm so thankful to those who attended and participated.

“Breast cancer is a really sensitive subject, and it takes a lot to walk into a room knowing that's going to be the sole focus for the next 60 minutes.

“It’s more important than ever to get to know our bodies, know what's normal for us and understand that early detection saves lives. I hope now there's lots more at Watford FC who will be starting a new monthly habit of checking their chests!”

A documentary telling the story of Hallenga showcases her wildly creative, fun and fearless approach to life, and navigating the realities of terminal illness and death on her own terms.

It is also an extension of her determination to educate people on the signs of breast cancer.

The documentary further demonstrates the depth of impact that Kris continues to make and the sheer scale of her legacy.

The Club and Trust are also pleased to support our friends at the West Herts Hospitals Charity, who have just launched a new breast cancer appeal to raise £200,000 to fund two Savi Scout Surgical Guidance Systems for the breast unit at St Albans City Hospital.

This cutting-edge technology will revolutionise breast cancer treatment locally. The system uses radar technology to precisely target and remove cancerous tissue.

By pinpointing the exact location of cancerous tissue, the system significantly reduces the unnecessary removal of healthy breast tissue, shortens hospital stays and reduces the need for repeat surgeries.

To kick-off the fundraising, the charity has organised a unique trek – the Titty Trail.

The trek is taking place on Sunday November 3 and is an 11-mile walk from Watford General Hospital to the breast unit at St Albans City Hospital, following the scenic Abbey Line Trail.