Friends Fund £ 211.20 for Two “Breast Self-Examination” models.

The models were funded with a kind donation to the Friends from the Godshill Girls Group from a Raffle event. A big thank you goes to the Group for thinking of the Friends.   

Introduction of the “Breast Self-Examination” model will enhance the services provision of community engagement as members of the Isle of Wight community will have the opportunity to engage in practical learning about breast cancer.

The model contains both palpable and non-palpable lumps which supports users to learn how to locate abnormalities with your fingers, whilst also demonstrating that some abnormalities we cannot locate without imaging. Thus, demonstrating the true value of breast screening in detecting abnormalities earlier through mammography.

Jill Shead, Clinical Lead, Isle of Wight Breast Screening Unit, St Mary’s Hospital explained:-

“The breast phantoms enable us to have good interaction with the public at promotional events and is a good ground breaker. People are keen to have a feel to see if they can identify the lumps hidden in them.  It also enables them to have an idea of what they are looking and feeling for. The phantoms also double up as a tool where good breast self-examination can be taught and practiced. The team are delighted to have them available when they go out on promotional events.”

In Picture left to right – from Friends of St Mary’s Chairman of the Trustees, Lesley Myland,  from Godshill Girls Group, Beryl Rowan, Mary Smith, Jill Marsh, Brenda Leppard, Emily Chambers, Yvonne Knapp and from Breast Screening Unit Jill Shead and Lucy Croad.