My breast cancer journey began in 2009, but it really started much earlier. When my mother Carmela was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 52, I learned just how important it is to stay vigilant about your health. Inspired by her strength, I kept up with regular check-ups, and now, later in life, I’ve become a passionate advocate for the importance of mammograms.

Because of what my mother went through, breast cancer awareness was always a part of my life. I understood the importance of self-checks and medical reviews, but like many women, life often got in the way. Between family commitments and living regionally, I sometimes put off appointments and relied on my GP and self-checks.

When I turned 50, I decided it was time to take control and booked my first free mammogram. The results showed multiple benign cysts, which was reassuring, and I was advised to come back each year for monitoring.

I continued my yearly mammograms until 2011, when exciting family celebrations — including my daughter’s wedding — led me to postpone my appointment. My mother and daughter gave me a loving push, reminding me to look after myself. As my dear mum would say, “Vate a checka — go and get yourself checked!”

That decision saved my life.

My screening showed signs of cancer, and further tests confirmed Stage 3 breast cancer. I will be forever grateful to my mum and daughter. If not for them, I would have delayed it even longer — and I probably wouldn’t be here today.

I had a mastectomy in September 2011, followed by six months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Supported by my husband Maurice and our children, I stayed positive and kept my dream close to my heart — to one day hold my grandchild’s hand.

Throughout treatment, kindness made all the difference. Weekly flowers, caring nurses and doctors who treated me like family… each gesture lifted me up. Each chemo session brought me closer to the end. I held onto hope and was determined to reach the top of my mountain.

Fourteen years later, I am cancer-free and grateful for the everyday moments that make life beautiful. And that dream I clung to has come true — I am now a proud Nonna to Sebastian.

My message is simple: don’t delay your screening. Just do it.

A mammogram for some women feels like a chore — another uncomfortable thing we have to do — but to me now, it means so much more. We can all tolerate fifteen minutes if it means detecting cancer earlier. Fifteen minutes can change your life, the lives of the people you love, and your future.

A mammogram saved my life — it can save yours too. We’re so lucky to have this service. Don’t wait — go and get it done.