In 2019, Morag Lauder (65) from Mount Vernon received life-altering news following a routine mammogram – she had cancerous cells in her breast. After undergoing a mastectomy, Morag felt a sense of relief and began to move forward with her life. However, exactly one year later, while checking her other breast in the shower, she discovered a lump.
Acting swiftly, she contacted the NHSGGC Breast Care Unit at Stobhill Hospital, only to have her worst fears confirmed – she had been diagnosed with breast cancer for a second time.
“I couldn’t believe it at first. I thought, surely not. Then I realised that I had the best team on my side, and that I had been through this before, so I felt a sense of calm knowing that I would be in good hands. They’re such amazing people,” Morag shared.
This time, the cancer was linked to her body’s oestrogen. The treatment plan included another mastectomy, radiotherapy, and ongoing medication to control the oestrogen and limit future cancer risks. Morag will attend the hospital annually for check-ups.
“It goes to show the importance of attending routine mammograms when invited. Never put them off – and checking your breasts regularly. Both easy-to-do things have saved my life,” Morag said.
Breast cancer screening aims to detect cancer in its very early stages. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde offers screenings every three years to women aged 50-70 years, inviting them to attend at a local centre or a breast screening van close to their home.
Morag and her partner, Ed McGillivary (62), are full of praise for the hardworking team at the NHSGGC Breast Care Unit and wanted to give back. Ed, who runs a music promotion and talent agency called Finest Talent Entertainment, used his connections to organise a glamorous fundraising dinner event at the Mercure Hotel in Glasgow. The event featured four top-tier acts and opened with a special tribute to Olivia Newton-John, who has sadly passed away following breast cancer in 2022. The pair ensured Olivia’s efforts to spread awareness of breast cancer during her personal journey were part of this event to celebrate her and help communicate the importance of awareness to their audience.
The fundraiser was a huge success, raising £3650. They donated £250 to Breast Cancer Research and the remaining £3400 to the NHSGGC Breast Care Unit at Stobhill Hospital.
Ed expressed their gratitude, saying, “This unit saved my partner’s life twice. We’re incredibly lucky. Their care is something to be commended. We are so appreciative of everything they do. We hope that we can continue the success of this year’s event next year. It would be brilliant to keep it going and we’re looking into that right now.”
