When great-grandfather Tom Slattery noticed a lump on his neck in 2023, he didn’t ignore it. He got medical advice straight away – and that quick decision changed everything as he was diagnosed with cancer.
“It was scary at first,” Tom recalls. “But seeing the doctor quickly was the best thing I ever did. I was sent for tests and treatment right away – and now I’m doing really well. I’m spending time with family, including my first great-granddaughter, and I’m back to working at Man Utd as a safety steward. I even completed the Great Manchester Run earlier this year. Acting fast when I found my lump gave me the best chance.”
Now, Tom’s experience is helping to shape a new NHS campaign: “Get Cancer Clever”.
Launching on Wednesday 29 October on Market Street, Manchester, the “This Van Can” mobile roadshow from the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance will travel across all ten boroughs of Greater Manchester for the next seven months. On board, specially trained staff will be available for free, friendly conversations about spotting the early signs of cancer – just like Tom did.
Dr Sarah Taylor, a Manchester GP and Associate Director at the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance explains:
“Most of the time, these symptoms aren’t cancer – but it’s always worth getting them checked. If it is cancer, catching it early makes all the difference. We want people to know that their GP is here for them.”
The “This Van Can” roadshow is here to make those conversations easier – whether it’s picking up a leaflet, having a quick chat, or simply learning what to watch for.
As well as Market Street on Wednesday, the van will be visiting Harpurhey Shopping Centre on Friday 31 October, then the Asda Eastlands Superstore (am) and the Etihad Stadium (pm) on Sunday 2 November before continuing it’s tour around Greater Manchester.
