Cassandra Thorburn’s breast cancer update nearly eight months on from rare diagnosis
Former journalist Cassandra Thorburn shares her experience with a rare form of breast cancer that presented without a lump. Her story highlights the importance of routine screenings, as her diagnosis was only caught through a mammogram reminder.
Why it matters
Raising awareness about rare cancer presentations and the necessity of regular screenings can significantly improve early detection and survival rates.
Share article Many breast cancer journeys begin with a lump. Cassandra Thorburn’s started with a letter in the mail.
It was a reminder from BreastScreen NSW that she was due for a routine mammogram, without which she may not have been diagnosed until it was too late.
Former journalist Cassandra Thorburn was fit and healthy when she was suddenly diagnosed with rare occult breast cancer earlier this year. @cassthorburn
Contact senior reporter Maddison Skipper at mskipper@nine.com.au .
“I literally got kissed on the arse by an angel who sent me my reminder,” Thorburn, 55, told nine.com.au.
Australian women, trans and gender diverse people should undergo free breast screening every two years from the age of 50 to 74, and can request free screening after 75 or from as young as 40.
There were no red flags at Thorburn’s screening, so she thought she was in the clear.
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