METUPUK has joined the Northern Ireland Coalition (NICCC) and will work collaboratively with partner charities to improve outcomes for cancer patients in Northern Ireland.
Ann McBrien, METUPUK’s Northern Ireland Executive Lead, attended the official launch of the Northern Ireland Cancer Charity Coalition (NICCC) at Stormont Parliament Buildings, Belfast on 10 June 2024.
As a patient and volunteer based charity, METUPUK provides unique expertise and insight into what it means to live with stage 4 cancer. We advocate for improvements in stage 4/metastatic breast cancer care across the UK across four key areas;
- · Raising awareness of the red flag signs & symptoms of metastatic breast cancer
- · Advocating for equitable access to cancer drugs and treatment across the UK
- · Increasing access to clinical trials
- · Ensuring data collection on patients living with metastatic breast cancer
Working as a full and active member of the Coalition will raise awareness of stage 4 disease which is often overlooked. METUPUK will help inform policies and work to make improvements in treatment, care and research for those diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in Northern Ireland.
Echoing the words of the Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, our aim is to ‘help deliver the best possible outcomes for those living with cancer’.
Ann had the opportunity to speak to both the First Minister, Michelle O Neill, and the Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt. She told them about living with stage 4 breast cancer, the work of METUPUK across the four pillars, and the importance of not leaving stage 4 cancer patients behind in the implementation of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy 2022 to 2032.
Richard Spratt, Chief Executive of Cancer Focus NI/ Interim Chair of NICCC, Emma Pengelly, Deputy First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, First Minister, and Mike Nesbitt, Health Minister