MSPs don pink to unite against breast cancer for charity event
A Scottish Government minister diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time praised political leaders from across the spectrum as they united against the disease.
Drugs and alcohol policy minister Christina McKelvie was speaking as MSPs, including First Minister John Swinney and former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, took part in Breast Cancer Now’s annual Wear It Pink event at Holyrood.
Around 4,800 people in Scotland are diagnosed with the disease every year, with Ms McKelvie saying: “As someone who has heard the words ‘you have breast cancer’ twice now, I know how devastating this diagnosis can be – which is why it was so important for me to continue to support Wear It Pink in the Scottish Parliament.
“By taking part in Wear It Pink we are united against breast cancer.
“It brings me a tremendous sense of hope that the Scottish Government remains committed to supporting Breast Cancer Now’s aim that by 2050 everyone who is diagnosed with breast cancer will live – and be supported to live well.
“For me, this ambition has never felt more personal from supporting Wear It Pink in the Parliament for more than a decade to experiencing my own journey when diagnosed with breast cancer.
“The support offered by Breast Cancer Now and other organisations to those diagnosed is absolutely vital. I know first-hand, having received it when I needed it the most.”
“We hope that by wearing pink, they’ll encourage their constituents to also wear it pink in their homes, schools or workplaces on Friday October 18 and help us to increase knowledge of breast cancer and continue to deliver life-changing breast cancer research and support.
“Wear It Pink is a fantastic opportunity for communities across the UK to come together, have fun and show their support for this very important cause.
“By simply wearing something pink and donating what you can, you‘ll help raise much-needed funds and awareness.
“Together we can take another vital stride towards reaching our goal that, by 2050, everyone who is diagnosed breast cancer will live, and be supported to live well.”