We feel so burdened with the so many human
tragedies that have been shared with us, but this is what keeps us going with
our campaign, for Breast Screening from 40 years.
Marie Averil Roigard - passed away 15.03.02 - 45 years
One poignant tragedy is of Marie, a truly beautiful woman, very dearly loved by all her family. Below is her story:
photo
- Marie in the early stages of her illness - a bit puffed up with
medication.
Marie had mentioned to her G.P. that she was
feeling very tired and that she had a discharge from her breast. She was
told by her G.P., her symptoms were menopausal and since there was no history of
breast cancer in the family, she accepted her G.P.'s diagnosis and just got on
with her busy life - then sadly by the time she felt the lump in her breast, it
was too late for surgery, she had 2 years of treatment (chemo etc) but the
cancer had spread.
photo - Marie (a very proud Mum) with Daughter Haley
This was taken just a matter of weeks before Marie passed away - although terminally ill - still smiling...
Marie was a much loved mother, daughter, sister, partner, niece and cousin. She was a vital, vibrant person whose mere presence brought sunshine and joy into the lives of others. A free and beautiful spirit who touched many with her joy and laughter.
Marie's presence was always uplifting to others. She used this gift at a time when she herself was so ill. She comforted others and knew she could relate to the older people she met who were also nearing the end of their journey, spending time listening, talking to and supporting them.
Marie passed away on the
15th March 2002 - had she had a mammogram at the age of 40 with ultrasound
backup if necessary, her
prognosis could have been quite different with earlier detection, as everyone
agrees, early detection saves lives.