Liz turns 70.. and takes up modelling
Beating breast cancer inspires fund-raising
A former UWS midwifery lecturer who survived breast cancer is preparing to take to the catwalk.
Liz Mackay will strut her stuff alongside 22 other people who have had a diagnosis at the annual Breast Cancer Care Fashion Show.
The retired lecturer, who was diagnosed in 1999 and finished treatment in 2000, will take part in the event at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow on Thursday, October 26.
Liz (70) is now a volunteer for Breast Cancer Care Scotland, and has raised more than £27,000 for the charity.
She said: “As part of the midwifery course, I taught students about breast cancer and screening programmes.
“I was shocked when I was diagnosed with breast cancer following my first routine mammogram screening at the age of 52.
“I could not believe I had not felt a lump, as I examined my breast regularly. However I was reassured when I later saw the consultant breast surgeon as she too was unable to feel the lump.
“She explained that it was very small and posterior, so difficult to feel, and not to feel guilty that I hadn’t found it. The lump was small but posterior, so I chose to have a mastectomy. After the surgery I had chemotherapy which was not pleasant, but necessary.
“I returned to work 11 months after my mastectomy surgery and really enjoyed the challenge of being back doing what I loved – teaching midwifery to enthusiastic students.
“Two years following my mastectomy I had reconstructive breast surgery carried out and this was the best decision I made. It gave me back my confidence.”
Two fashion shows will take place on the day, which will raise vital funds to support the 4600 people diagnosed with breast cancer across Scotland each year.
Models will be transformed from head to toe before hitting the runway, wearing a range of outfits from House of Fraser, and having their hair and make-up professionally styled and applied.
Liz, from Holytown, continued: “Taking part in the Fashion Show is something I never expected to do.
“Taking to the catwalk is an opportunity to share in an event with others who have undergone a similar journey following a diagnosis of breast cancer.
“It’s a great opportunity to show the world there is life after breast cancer and what better way is there to celebrate turning 70.”
Dawn Stanley, event manager at Breast Cancer Care Scotland, said: “We are so proud of our brave models.
“Taking to the catwalk is a once in lifetime opportunity for our models to enjoy some welldeserved pampering and show that it’s possible to look great and feel confident after a diagnosis of breast cancer.”