Green Party councillor Lauren Kendall has disclosed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer, and said she hopes sharing her story will raise awareness of symptoms and encourage women to seek medical advice quickly if they notice any differences.

"This has been the most distressing time I have ever experienced. I have struggled with accepting the diagnosis and facing the treatment that lies ahead, as so many women do. It has completely shaken my sense of identity, the anxiety is immense," she said.

Kendall urged women to be alert to a range of signs beyond a hard lump, including swelling or thickening of breast tissue, changes in size or shape, skin dimpling, puckering or redness, nipple inversion or unusual discharge, and persistent pain in the breast or armpit.

"I did not have obvious symptoms. A strange red bruise that wouldn’t go away is what prompted me to get checked.

"We all must check our breasts regularly and report any difference to the GP. While many changes will thankfully turn out to be benign, getting checked early is so important. Please take the time to know your own body. If something changes, no matter how small or unusual, contact your GP as soon as possible. Don’t wait and persevere if you have to," she added.

Health professionals advise that any unexplained change should be assessed by a GP as early as possible, as prompt diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes.

Kendall described difficulties navigating the system, saying she waited six weeks from an urgent (red flag) GP referral to an imaging appointment, despite a two‑week target, and is still awaiting an agreed treatment plan more than 80 days after her referral, beyond the 62‑day treatment target. She also said she had to redial 51 times to reach her GP practice after her initial referral, adding that such delays intensify anxiety for people awaiting diagnosis and care. "I nearly didn't go to the GP initially because it is so difficult to secure an appointment. The phone-in triage system is a huge barrier. However, after sending a family member to book for me, I was given a priority appointment. I am so grateful to my GP for recognising the unusual symptoms, that something could be wrong and making a 'red flag' referral. She has been very supportive," she said.

"It has been over 80 days since the red flag referral. I have still not started treatment. Every day is filled with fear, you can’t help but feel that the delays are letting you die. It is a feeling shared by many waiting for the diagnosis and treatment, its torture.

"I recognise the incredibly hard work of individuals who have, and are, caring for me, our NHS nurses, consultants and healthcare staff are extraordinary. I am also deeply thankful to the Macmillan telephone support teams, who took the time to listen to me when I needed it. There are times when this has felt so lonely."

She added that services are under immense strain, which makes an already frightening diagnosis even harder for those going through it.

Kendall said she intends to continue representing her community where possible, while prioritising her health, and called for more open conversations about breast health in schools and communities.

"I have shared with my Party colleagues that I would like to continue serving the Holywood and Clandeboye community, although there may be times when this becomes difficult as things progress. I truly hope I can, although I do have a long road of treatment and surgery ahead."

The Green Party said it fully supports Kendall during treatment and recovery. Green Party leader, Mal O'Hara said: "Lauren is a valued friend and colleague. She is a dedicated local councillor and works hard supporting the Holywood and Clandeboye Community. As a party we stand full square behind her and will support her with anything she needs over the coming months. Sharing her personal story to encourage other women to check their breasts is testament to her courage and commitment for women's health. We all wish Lauren every success with her treatment, a speedy recovery, and look forward to seeing her healthy again."