“I had no symptoms”: Co Antrim woman urges public to be cancer aware ahead of World Cancer Day
- Love Ballymena
- 4 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Joanne McCook in conversation with Northern Trust Clinical Nurse Specialist Yvonne McGraw.
“Everyone should be cancer aware.”
That is the clear message from Co Antrim woman Joanne McCook, who has shared her personal breast cancer journey ahead of World Cancer Day on Wednesday 4 February.
Joanne, who lives in Ballybogey, was diagnosed with Grade 3 breast cancer in 2022 despite feeling well and having no warning signs.
Now, through a partnership with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, she is encouraging people across Northern Ireland to recognise the importance of screening and to be alert to changes in their own bodies.
Her diagnosis followed the discovery of a lump during self-examination — a moment that led to swift medical intervention.
“I had no symptoms, I felt well. When I felt the lump, I felt really sick. I contacted the doctor and within an hour and a half I went down to get the lump investigated,” she said.
At the time, Joanne had received a clear mammogram just six months earlier after turning 50, highlighting how quickly changes can occur and the importance of ongoing vigilance.
Following her diagnosis, Joanne underwent chemotherapy and a lumpectomy. She has since had four further mammograms to closely monitor her condition and remains committed to regular self-checks.
Joanne McCook from Ballybogey was diagnosed with Grade 3 breast cancer in 2022. She has shared her story ahead of World Cancer Day.
Self-examination has now become part of her weekly routine — a habit she believes can save lives.
“I would examine my breast two or three times a week and I do think that looking in the mirror, examining yourself and being aware of your own body, is very important. If you notice anything different get in touch with your doctor,” she advised.
Her message is strongly supported by healthcare professionals on the frontline. Yvonne McGraw, a Breast Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist based at Antrim Area Hospital, stressed that awareness and action are crucial.
“Two of the best things you can do to detect cancer early is firstly be aware and take action if you notice any symptoms, and secondly, to attend screening when you are called.
“If you receive a screening invitation it is vital that you attend, even if you have no symptoms. If cancer is found early, treatment is more likely to be successful. Early detection saves lives.”
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust operates two breast screening units that rotate across the Trust area, currently based at Mid Ulster Hospital in Magherafelt and Whiteabbey Hospital.
Women aged between 50 and 70, who are registered as female with a GP in the Northern Trust area, are automatically invited for screening and should receive their first appointment before their 53rd birthday.
Women aged over 70 are not automatically invited but are encouraged to continue attending screening every three years by contacting their local screening unit directly to request an appointment.
In addition to breast screening, Northern Ireland has established screening programmes for bowel and cervical cancer.
The Northern Ireland Bowel Cancer Screening Programme offers screening every two years to individuals aged 60 to 74 who are registered with a GP. Eligible participants are automatically sent a home testing kit by post, allowing them to complete the test privately.
Cervical cancer screening is available to eligible women aged 25 to 49 every three years, and to women aged 50 to 64 every five years. Screening is intended for women who do not have symptoms.
As World Cancer Day approaches, Joanne hopes her story will prompt others to take simple but potentially life-saving steps.
For more information on the signs and symptoms of cancer, visit:
Anyone concerned about symptoms or changes in their body is advised to contact their GP as soon as possible for advice, reassurance and referral if required.