Friday 07-11-2025 - 09:55

GCU Radiography Society Raises Awareness for Breast Cancer

On 29th October, between 12–2pm, the GCU Radiography Society hosted an awareness stall on campus as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The event aimed to highlight the importance of early detection and regular self-checks for breast cancer,  a crucial message for people of all ages. Throughout the afternoon, members of the society engaged with over 100 students, sharing information on how to check for lumps and encouraging open, informed conversations about breast health.

A key feature of the stall was the Breast Lump Display, which visually compared the typical sizes of lumps found in different circumstances, from someone having their first-ever mammogram at age 50, to someone attending a routine mammogram, to those who regularly perform breast self-examinations, and those who do not. The display offered a striking visual demonstration of the difference early detection can make, reinforcing the importance of regular self-checks and screening.

In addition to raising awareness, the society also held a raffle and a “guess the number of chocolates in the jar” game to raise funds for the charity Breast Cancer Now. Thanks to the generosity of students and staff, the event raised £155, with prizes including a hamper and vouchers for local businesses. Although no one guessed the correct number of chocolates (74) the jar was added as an extra raffle prize, ensuring everyone who participated helped contribute to a good cause.

While the primary fundraising focus was Breast Cancer Now, the stall also promoted the CoppaFeel! text reminder service, encouraging students to sign up for monthly reminders to perform breast self-examinations. This free service helps individuals stay proactive about their breast health, you can find out more or sign up here: CoppaFeel! SMS Reminders.

Breast Cancer Now is dedicated to giving support for today and hope for the future, for everyone affected by breast cancer. The organisation brings together researchers, nurses, expert staff, campaigners, volunteers, and fundraisers, all united by the goal of ensuring that no one faces breast cancer alone. Their vision is clear:

“By 2050, everyone diagnosed with breast cancer will live – and be supported to live well.”

The GCU Radiography Society would like to thank everyone who stopped by the stall, donated, or took the time to learn more about breast cancer awareness. Events like this not only raise vital funds but also play an important role in promoting health awareness and encouraging early detection among the university community.

The society hopes to continue hosting similar events throughout the year, supporting important health causes and helping to foster a community that is informed, compassionate, and proactive about wellbeing.

 

Celebrating World Radiography Day

In the spirit of World Radiography Day, which falls on 8th November, the Radiography Society hosted a bake sale on 6th November to raise funds for future events, including their upcoming CPD Conference in January and the highly anticipated RadBall at the end of the academic year.

World Radiography Day marks the anniversary of Wilhelm Röntgen’s discovery of X-rays in 1895,  a breakthrough that transformed modern medicine. To celebrate, the society embraced an autumnal theme with gingerbread cookies and cinnamon swirl blondies, alongside crowd favourites such as brownies, Dubai chocolate bars, Malteser slices, and more.

Lucy, Treasurer of the Radiography Society told us that “The stall was a great success, selling out an hour earlier than expected. It was also a welcome distraction from our dissertations and we’re already looking forward to hosting more events like this in the new year."

Course Based Societies at GCU

Do you want to start a society, but don’t know where to begin?
Do you think you and your course mates could benefit from more support or opportunities to connect?

Starting an course based society is a great way to build community within your subject area. Course based societies provide a space for students across all year groups to share their experiences, organise study groups, host coffee mornings, social events, and more. They also help foster valuable networks between students, alumni, and industry professionals through events, sponsorships, specialist talks, and fundraisers.

Setting up a society is simple, just get in touch with the Societies Coordinator, let them know your idea, and they’ll send you a starter pack and guide you through every step of the process.

GCU currently has 26 course based societies, but there’s always room for more. Could you be the one to fill that gap?