All I can do now is live life to the full
Alison Ross had no idea what secondary breast cancer was until she was diagnosed with the disease.
The executive assistant was diagnosed three years ago after noticing a change to the shape of one of her breasts. Doctors said she would need a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. But, just days later, tests showed the disease had spread to her bones and she was told her cancer could no longer be cured. Alison, 50, of Bishopbriggs, Glasgow, said: “When I was diagnosed, it felt like I had been given a death sentence. “Your whole world and the world of those who love you is turned upside down. But what seemed frightening and foreign is now the norm and I am doing my best to live my life to the full.
“I have treatment every month but I’m back at work and I’m more appreciative of life and spending time with my friends and family.”
Alison is one of three women with secondary breast cancer taking part in this year’s fashion show.
Last week, the BCC charity announced a new campaign to raise awareness of secondary breast cancer and ensure all patients with the disease have access to specialist care and support.
Unlike primary breast cancer, secondary breast cancer cannot be cured.
But improvements in treatments mean many patients are living with the disease for much longer than before.
Alison, who lives with her partner Robert, 58, said: “A lot of people assume that because I’ve had treatment and I’m looking well and back at work, then I must be better.
“But unfortunately that’s not the case for me and a lot of people like me. More needs to be done to raise awareness.”