“Action Cancer’s Big Bus saved my life” says survivor
Last updated 27th Apr 2021
A County Armagh woman, who has hailed Action Cancer’s Big Bus for saving her life, is encouraging others to hop onboard.
46-year-old Elaine Loughlin from Poyntzpass was diagnosed in May 2019 with breast cancer after receiving a mammogram on the charity’s Big Bus.
The single mum of three had no intention of attending a screening appointment until a school friend, who also had cancer, encouraged her to book one.
She said: “It honestly would not have crossed my mind, and because she’s such a nice person, I thought I promised this girl I’ll do this, and I will.
“I have to do it, I have to hold my promise and only she spurred me on, honestly, Action Cancer obviously saved my life with the results I got back that day.
“Unknowingly she did save my life.”
Elaine followed through on her promise and booked a screening onboard the Big Bus at the upcoming Balmoral Show.
Two weeks later Elaine was sent a letter explaining something had been detected and further assessment was necessary.
Following a series of checks; physical examination, further mammograms, ultrasound and biopsies, Elaine was diagnosed that day with cancer in her right breast.
Elaine had surgery on July 1 to remove the cancerous lump.
Tests revealed that she would need a course of 20 sessions of radiotherapy at Belfast City Hospital.
Following treatment, Elaine is now cancer free and has encouraged other women and men to utilise the service that saved her life.
It comes as the organisation unveiled its new Big Bus yesterday (Tuesday) in Belfast.
The new vehicle will travel to 200 locations over the year delivering 2,000 health checks and 5,000 breast screenings.
Elaine added: “Please don’t let embarrassment stop you going.
“Where my tumour was, they did say it wouldn’t have presented itself for many years and it was an angry tumour.
“I was 45 then and they didn’t like my chances of seeing 50.
“So, I’m encouraging people to look after themselves and get themselves checked.
“I’m back 100% back to being me and I have to thank Action Cancer for saving my life, the big Bus did save my life and that’s the truth, I can’t stress that enough.
“Complete and utter shock, it really was.
“So, what I would say to mummies and the women out there, please keep your health checks up to date.
“Your children need you with them, it’s so important that you put yourself first sometimes, it has to be done.
“They’re so professional on the bus and they put you so much at ease if you’re in your 40s definitely go and get check.
“So, if this saves one life by me saying this please go.”
Read More:
Action Cancer's new Big Bus all set to hit the road
How to listen to Downtown Radio: