A Walsall woman is urging others to regularly “touch, look and check” their breasts after her own diagnosis of cancer potentially saved her life.

Julie Lee was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2024 after feeling something wasn’t quite right. She was referred for exploratory tests by her GP.

A mammogram, ultrasound and biopsies confirmed breast cancer and although a shock, she was able to seek earlier medical intervention.

The 62 year old wife and mother was able to begin treatment quickly and is now sharing her story, this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, to encourage others to check themselves regularly.

She said: “Following surgery I’d had 16 years prior, I wasn’t sure if a hollow feeling in my breast was just ‘the new normal’.

“But it was really bothering me, so I got it checked out. I’d encourage all women to touch, look and check and to visit your GP if you have any worries at all.

“I had always attended regular mammograms, and my latest hadn’t raised anything suspicious. It was merely a feeling I can’t explain and hearing of more people being diagnosed that planted a seed of doubt in my mind and urged me to get checked.”

Describing the news as a complete bombshell, Julie, of New Invention,  knew she did the right thing by beginning early investigations.

Her treatment plan included chemotherapy, a mastectomy and radiotherapy Walsall Manor Hospital followed by ongoing hormone treatment and medication.

She said: “Everyone is caught up in the business of life and sometimes we forget to prioritise our own health.

“It just shows, only you know your own body and if there’s something bothering you, no matter how big or small, it’s important to get checked by professionals.”

Julie praised the exceptional care she received from the Breast Care Team, she said: “The staff were fantastic, from Chemotherapy to Oncology, to all the support Nurses. There is always someone to lend a listening ear and explain things when you need clarity.”

Optimistic for a swift recovery following her final course of treatment, Julie is looking forward to booking a holiday and getting back to normality.

Read more about the Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign.