Breast and testicle props being used to spark cancer conversations

18 July 2023

The equity lead of Suffolk Police Federation has been hosting a number of live events and demonstrations as part of a ‘cancer road show’ to help raise awareness of the disease.

Workplace rep Emma Arthurs has been tackling the taboo surrounding cancer by using breast and testicle props to spark conversations on the subject with her colleagues.

She is driven by her own experiences, having been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017. 

“When I was first diagnosed, I didn’t know where to go for support or who to talk to. I don’t want other people who are in a similar situation to experience that,” said Emma, who has been living cancer-free for more than five years now, having received chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.

“To get the conversation going, and to talk to colleagues about the support and welfare available, we’ve been visiting different departments as part of a ‘cancer road show’, which has been really well-received. 

“We have these props, which look like a breast and a testicle, and we use them to demonstrate to people how they should check themselves properly for lumps.”

Emma hosts the events alongside fellow officer Hayley O’Donnell, who is also living cancer free having previously been diagnosed with the disease.

“We find that people only have to walk past the props to ask a question,” continued Emma, who has most recently been engaging with the Suffolk Women’s Network.

“And it’s working. One person actually went to the doctor having spoken to us. I think the props act as a talking point, and encourage people to open up.”

Emma said that she wants her colleagues to know that, as somebody who has experienced living with cancer, she will be there to hold the hand of others who have been diagnosed.

She explained: “Whether you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with cancer, we are here for you, before, during and after. You are not going through this alone.

“And I’m speaking to the loved ones of those who have been diagnosed with cancer too. The partners, the carers, the parents and family members - they need that support too.”

Following her own experience with cancer, Emma decided to launch a peer support group, which helps those diagnosed or recovering from cancer, as well as those who are carers or bereaved, feel less isolated.

And in November last year, Emma and Hayley hosted their first-ever support day for Suffolk and Norfolk police officers. 

Dozens attended the event, which was organised alongside local charities The Big C - which supports people living with cancer - and On The Ball - specifically helping those with testicular cancer - as well as Macmillan Cancer Research.

“We’re hoping to host another peer support event this year, and will continue to work internally to raise awareness internally,” Emma added.

“If anyone wants us to visit them with our props, then please get in touch. Even if it’s part of their team building day, the more we talk about it, hopefully, the more of a difference we will be able to make.”

If you would like Emma and Hayley to bring their props to an event or team-building session you have coming up then email Emma.Arthurs@polfed.org