Tag Archives: cancer awareness 2025

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025: Support & Solidarity

By Matthew McKenzie – Facilitator of cancer carer forum

Breast Cancer Awareness

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the UK, which is a time not only to focus on the disease itself but also to recognize the people whose lives are touched by breast cancer.

Awareness campaigns often center on early detection and medical advances, but the human stories behind the statistics are equally vital. Patients, families, and carers form a network of support, resilience, and hope, and their experiences deserve to be at the heart of our conversations.

Just to note, the blog is a transcript of my video below.

The Scope of Breast Cancer in the UK

Breast cancer affects tens of thousands of people every year in the UK, according to organizations like Macmillan Cancer Support. The impact is widespread, touching individuals from all walks of life. While medical statistics and research are essential, it’s crucial to remember that behind every diagnosis is a person navigating a complex journey often with the help of loved ones and caregivers.

Practical Steps for Individuals and Communities

How You Can Make a Difference

  • Get to know your body: Regular self-examination and awareness of changes are key.
  • Seek medical advice: Don’t ignore persistent changes—early action is vital.
  • Share information: Spread reliable, accurate information about breast cancer.
  • Support carers: Recognize their role and offer practical and emotional support.
  • Join or create support networks: Forums, peer groups, and information hubs can make a big difference.
  • Promote solidarity: Wear pink, share stories, and show support.
  • Advocate for better services: Engage with local authorities and healthcare providers to improve access and support.

Building a Supportive Environment

Creating a supportive environment for patients and carers involves more than just medical care. It’s about fostering connections, offering respite, and ensuring that everyone feels included and valued.

World Lung Cancer Day 2025: Honoring Unpaid Carers & Fostering Compassion

By Matthew McKenzie

On this World Lung Cancer Day (1st of August), we spotlight not only the impact of lung cancer itself, but also theose behind the scenes the unpaid family members, friends, and carers who provide unwavering love, support, and strength.

In this 8-minute video, hosted by myself from A Caring Mind, I explore:

  • The profound emotional and physical toll of caring for someone with cancer
  • The critical need for early detection, expanded research funding, and global health equity
  • The indispensable role of families and unpaid carers—whose contributions often go unrecognized

I also introduce major organizations leading the lung cancer fight:

  • European Respiratory Society (ERS) – promoting lung health through education, early diagnosis, policy advocacy, and improved treatment pathways
  • Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) – uniting global respiratory health organizations to advocate for prevention, clean air, and equitable access to care
  • Lung Cancer Foundation of America (LCFA) – funding innovative lung cancer research and amplifying the voices of patients and survivors to raise awareness and reduce stigma
  • Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) – accelerating research, supporting affected individuals, and organizing global awareness initiatives like World Lung Cancer Day

In the video I remind that behind the tragic statistic of over 1.6 million annual deaths worldwide, are stories of resilience and compassion: nights spent advocating in hospitals, hands held during chemotherapy, and hope sustained in the darkest moments.

What You Can Do:

  • Share the video to raise awareness
  • Support carers through mental health resources and recognition
  • Advocate for policies that include carers in healthcare support systems
  • Approach lung cancer conversations with empathy—not stigma

Today, we honor not just the patients, but those who stand beside them—quietly, persistently, lovingly.