Newry 'Big Bus' screening visit led to early cancer diagnosis

A Newry woman has been given the all-clear after early stage breast cancer was detected during a screening appointment provided through Action Cancer’s Big Bus which called at Re-Gen's Newry headquarters for two days in March. 

Re-Gen is sharing her story as it marks five years of supporting breast cancer awareness and renews its call for women to prioritise screening, regular self-checks and early intervention.

The Action Cancer Big Bus provided breast screening appointments for more than 30 women aged between 40 and 49 over the two days..

Following her appointment, the woman was recalled for further assessment. The subsequent investigations revealed a cancerous lump. Because it was detected at an early stage, treatment could begin immediately at Belfast City Hospital. After minor surgery and radiotherapy, she has been given the all-clear and can continue her convalescence.

Without the screening opportunity provided through the Big Bus visit, the cancer could have remained undetected for longer.

The woman said, “I will be forever grateful to Re-Gen for bringing The Action Cancer Big Bus to the community in March of this year. My early diagnosis led to immediate treatment, and I am now blessed to have received an all-clear from my outstanding medical team and can return to a normal life with my family and friends.”

Re-Gen will continue to support Breast Cancer Awareness and is already planning for the Action Cancer Big Bus to return to its Newry site in 2028, helping more women access potentially life-saving screening services.

Celine Doherty, Commercial Director at Re-Gen, said, “One screening appointment changed the course of this woman’s life. That is why early detection matters. Our message is simple: know what is normal for you, attend a screening when eligible - Action Cancer Screenings are for females aged 40-49 years and 70+ - and never ignore a change that does not feel right. We are proud to support Action Cancer’s Big Bus, which brings potentially life-saving services directly to communities across Northern Ireland.”