17/06/2026
“I didn't even find a lump. Instead, a small, cellulite like dimple that was only noticeable in certain light.
“At the time I thought it may just be ageing skin, but something niggled at me to get it checked and I remember from a poster that puckering of skin can be a sign of breast cancer.
“When I went to the GP surgery I was asked "is it urgent"? Well technically no, but we are always told for any lumps, the earlier you find something, the easier it becomes to treat.
“Initially my GP couldn't find a lump, but because it was technically a 'change', I was still booked into a breast clinic appointment a week later.
“My appointment examination proved difficult to find anything apart from the dimpling, but after several mammograms and ultrasound, I knew there was something.”
“When I was called in to see my surgeon, I was told quite straight; it's likely to be cancer, we just don't know what it is yet. And in that moment your world changes and as I'm sure hundreds of women before me have asked, ‘am I going to die?’. As much as they reassure you this is a very treatable disease, your mind works at 100 miles an hour.”
“I was diagnosed with a lobular cancer which can be more tricky to spot due to the way it develops in lines rather than solid lumps, which we so often are looking for.
“So when you check, really do look. Mine could have been so easily missed. And if you have any doubt, however small, do get it checked.
“I want to share my experience to give people hope that this is now a very treatable disease and if you find yourself in my situation hearing the words 'you have cancer', it really doesn't need to be the end. Instead, it's the start of a different journey you may have not expected to take, but can be an incredibly positive and life changing one.”
Checking your breasts regularly can help you spot any new or unusual changes. Jo’s story is an important reminder to be aware of different breast changes, and to always get these checked out by a GP.
Find more about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer to look out for on our website.