BEING a servical cancer survivor and activist I would like to appeal to everyone in the Cowdenbeath area to join me in this Cervical Cancer Awareness Week (CCAW) and encourage loved ones to take part in the Smear For Smear Campaign.

To get involved post a #SmearForSmear selfie with a tip or word of support. Your post might be the reminder or encouragement someone needs to book their test, it could literally save their life.

With over 1.2 million people not taking up their invite each year it’s more important than ever.

Smear tests aren’t easy for everyone, but they can save lives. The number of people going for smear tests is lower than ever. 1 in 4 women still don't attend their smear test.

I want everyone to know what a smear test is for, why they’re important and ways to make them better. Joining me last year were Celebrities Jennifer Reoch and Ewen Cameron supporting the campaign, along with fellow military Veterans, together with your help we can make a difference between January 21 to 27 for #SmearforSmear during CCAW".

Smear tests prevent 75% of cervical cancers, so while they may not be pleasant, they are important. Join the campaign to ensure every woman understands the importance of screening in preventing cervical cancer.

You can find out more information by joining Suzanne on her Cervical Cancer Support Group: https://www.facebook.com/1Cervical/

and Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust: https://www.jostrust.org.uk

Watch my video pn https://youtu.be/Wjj8uiiHsX8

SUZANNE FERNANDO,

Cervical Cancer Veteran.