A tribute

I recently read an obituary of Jane Andrews see: http://www.guardian.co.uk/theguardian/2010/feb/09/jane-andrews-obituary. The story here is of a strong and feisty woman who was critical of the 'pnk and fluffy' symbolisation of breast cancer and confronted this image.

As her friend Rita said: 'Jane set up a website fiercely critical of "pink and fluffy" approaches to breast cancer. Not for her stories about "bravery" and "fighting". In calling for more realistic representations of the illness, her postings spoke for the many breast cancer sufferers who contacted her through the website. Only now are we beginning to hear other voices speaking out against the social pressure on cancer patients to deny their anger and "think positive". This campaign was the culmination of a life devoted to political change'.

I felt so dissappointed that I had not come across Jane's website during my own illness and certainly while she was alive - I still can't locate it! If anyone can - please let me know.

How we see breast cancer is one thing and how we cope with it is another - a balance is required and I can resonate with Jane on many levels. The mantra of being positive and social pressures about how to be are huge and 'in your face', everyone has a view!!! From my perspective how we feel is complex, humans are different and we must not deny difference, there is no one way of being. Jane clearly drew attention to difference.