A retired member of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde staff, Liz Thomas (71) from Pollock, has been photographed as part of an exhibition to celebrate the resilience, beauty, and strength of women affected by breast cancer.
Liz and three other women chosen for the photoshoot have recently had or are undergoing treatment for breast cancer. They were chosen to be part of Pink Ribbon Foundation’s BOLD Scotland Exhibition.
This extraordinary project, captured by award-winning photographer Caroline Sikkenk, is currently displayed in Glasgow’s Princess Square by M as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
In addition to taking part in this project, Liz is also leveraging this month to share an important message – go for your breast screening when you’re invited.
In November 2024, Liz attended her routine breast screening appointment at NHSGGC’s Breast Clinic in Nelson Mandela Place. Within a week, she was recalled and asked to bring someone with her.
“I wasn’t expecting good news,” Liz said. “They told me two lumps had been found. I had a biopsy and scans there and then. It turned out I had two Stage 3 tumours.”
Within four weeks, Liz underwent a mastectomy at Gartnavel Hospital, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy in early 2025.
“The treatment was tough, physically and mentally, but I met wonderful people along the way. The staff were incredible. We even managed to laugh during chemo. One time, the nurses joked they had to separate me from the other ladies because we were giggling so much. Laughter got us through.”
Liz credits her daughter Jourdana, also an NHSGGC staff member, as her rock throughout the journey.
“I have a good life and a great life ahead. Who knows if I’d have that if I hadn’t gone for screening?”
Now, Liz is on a mission. She said:
“I tell everyone, my daughter, my friends, even the girl who does my nails, never miss your breast screening appointment. And if you’re over 70, you won’t automatically get a letter. You need to contact the breast screening centre yourself.”
Women aged between 50 and 70 will be invited for breast screening every three years. Those eligible, will be invited by NHSGGC via letter to the address registered with their GP, and people are advised to ensure this is up to date.
Anyone over the age of 70, can make an appointment for breast screening directly via the breast screening service.
Breast cancer | Get Checked Early
Breast screening in Scotland | NHS inform
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Exhibition Details
The BOLD Scotland exhibition is on display at Princes Square by M.
Entry is free, giving everyone the opportunity to witness this inspiring and empowering project.