I WANT to talk to you about something, something that altogether does not get talked about enough.
Unless, perhaps, you’re down the pub with a load of blokes, but that is, usually, in an entirely different context. I’d like to talk to you about our delicate parts.
And frankly, that was the most delicate way I could put it.
So, boobs and our nether regions. Or more specifically the big C that can affect them. Breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer. Three big nasty Cs. Most of us know someone they’ve affected directly. For me, my paternal grandmother died of breast cancer and my uncle has prostate cancer. There is, of course, plenty of press about it; last week was National Cervical Cancer week. This week, it was in the news that a study at Glasgow University had shown that men who drank more than seven cups of tea a day were more likely to develop prostate cancer. And on Tuesday, I helped launch the One Day campaign for Breakthrough Breast Cancer (a charity for which I am an ambassador). The idea behind the campaign is to help them fund Scotland’s only dedicated breast cancer research unit for just one day.
I’m generally a fairly light-hearted soul, apart from when someone’s finished off the packet of HobNobs. However, this is something I feel passionately about and we could all do a bit more, both for ourselves and for others – whether that’s moonwalking, fundraising or just being there for somebody. But the most important thing, just have a good feel – go on, check yourself out.
Happy tears after honours
MY MUM has done many wonderful, dutiful and difficult things in her life, not least, bringing me up!
She is (as well as a doting mother) a scientist and a professor.
Her life’s work has been researching the human papilloma virus (HPV), its connection to cancer and developing a vaccine.
A phenomenal legacy – and it seems the Queen thinks so too! Last week my lovely ma was awarded an MBE in the royal ma’s birthday honours. I had a wee cry, I’m just ever so proud.
QB’s Corner – 5 things I’m loving this week
1. THE KILLING II:
I was hooked the first time with this Danish drama and they’ve reeled me in again. Right, that’s my social life ‘killed’ for next couple of weeks then...
2. CAT FISH:
I’m going scuba-diving this week so I’ve been trying to get plenty of serious swimming practice in, but most of the time I just like pretending to be a fish!
3. STRAWBERRIES & BALSAMIC:
This gem came from my mum (she has many other talents aside from science stuff). The vinegar brings our their flavour (and it’s delish!). What next though: a bit of broon sauce on the side?
4. SONG ‘N’ DANCE:
I always say I don’t like musicals; then I go to one and I’m dancing in the aisles and singing along. I went to see Oliver! this week and it was so good. Please Sir, can I have some more?
5. HOLIBAGS:
I’ve packed my bags and I’m off on hols this week! Sun, sea, sand and... scuba (why, what else were you thinking?) – I’ll tell you all about it next week!