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.
This Van Can is a mobile NHS cancer awareness roadshow touring Greater Manchester to encourage people to Get Cancer Clever
“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 mobile roadshow 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.
Why It Matters
The earlier cancer is found, the easier it is to treat. The NHS wants everyone to know the key symptoms to look out for, including:
- A lump or swelling anywhere on the body
- A cough or breathlessness lasting more than three weeks
- Unexplained bleeding (in pee, poo, or between periods)
- Heartburn that lasts for three weeks or more
- Unexplained tiredness, pain, loss of appetite, or weight loss
Dr Sarah Taylor, a Manchester GP, 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.”
