Member's statement: Ovarian Cancer Awareness Week
Member's statement by Mrs Pam Cameron on .
- MLA
- Mrs Pam Cameron
- Party at the time
- Democratic Unionist Party
- Date
- 24 March 2025
- Type
- Member's statement (made as a minister)
- Business
- Members' Statements
- Heading
- Ovarian Cancer Awareness Week
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 4864545
Read the official Assembly record
Text
I take the opportunity to raise awareness of the fact that this is the month that we dedicate to ovarian cancer awareness. It is vital that we recognise the significant contributions of individuals who have worked tirelessly to bring this disease to the forefront. I pay tribute to two extraordinary women: Una Crudden, who sadly passed away from ovarian cancer in December 2014; and Julie Scates, who passed away in April 2019. They fought valiantly against ovarian cancer and dedicated themselves to raising awareness of the issue. It is often a very overlooked disease. As they campaigned against ovarian cancer and raised awareness of it, they did so knowing that the campaign would never help them. It was too late for both those individuals. However, they campaigned and worked hard to raise awareness, especially in this institution, in order to ensure that the women who were coming behind them had a better experience, early warning, early detection and would be better off for their example. Una and Julie both exemplified the true spirit of advocacy, and they used their voices and experiences to educate others about the symptoms and risks of ovarian cancer, tirelessly organising events and support groups that fostered community engagement and understanding. Their efforts illuminated the importance of early detection and empowered countless women to seek medical advice when they might otherwise have hesitated. Through their passion and commitment, Una and Julie transformed their personal battles into a broader movement for change, ensuring that others would not have to face this disease in silence. Their legacy is one of hope and resilience. As we observe Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, let us honour Una and Julie by continuing their mission. We must advocate for further research, education and support for those affected by ovarian cancer. Together, we can create a future in which fewer families endure the pain of the disease and awareness leads to earlier detection and better outcomes. That is what we all want, so let us all stand united in that effort and carry forward the torch that Una and Julie lit with their unwavering dedication.
351 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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