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Young islanders are to be encouraged to make checking for breast cancer a "lifelong habit" as part of a charity campaign arriving in Jersey next month.
CoppaFeel!'s 'Boobettes' – volunteers who experienced breast cancer at a young age – have announced a series of local events.
ABC Jersey, who support people with breast cancer in Jersey, and UK charity CoppaFeel! – who specialise in breast cancer in young people – have set up a schedule of events to reach both students in secondary schools and the general public.
The school roadshow will see volunteers share their stories and inspire students to adopt the habit of checking their breasts for anything unusual.
Meanwhile, a fundraising quiz night on Tuesday 5 March at the Ambassadeur Hotel, and an Open Night at the Town Hall on Wednesday 6 March will allow islanders to access the same information as students.
WATCH: The Boobettes are a team of volunteers who experienced breast cancer at a young age.
Rhiannon Murray, a CoppaFeel! staff member, said the team was "excited" to visit Jersey.
She explained: "[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 them feel empowered to get checked out 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 ABC Jersey was a priority for 2024.
She added: "We wish to reach all individuals that make up the diverse tapestry of our island, 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!”
Information about the events are available on the ABC Jersey website. Details of the quiz night are available HERE.
CoppaFeel! encourage people to get to know their breasts and pay attention to which changes occur naturally with their cycle – and which don't.
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include changes in skin texture, lumps and thickening, nipple discharge, nipple inversion and changes in direction, swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone, constant or unusual pain in the breast or armpit, a sudden change in size or shape, or a rash or crusting of the nipple or surrounding area.
The charity has created 'The Self-Checkout' to guide users through the process of checking themselves.
Pictured top: CoppaFeel!'s 'Boobettes' will be delivering presentations in Jersey secondary schools and to the general public.
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