A SALE cancer sufferer has made a difference by urging the Government to face up to future challenges posed by the disease.

Nicola Edbury, aged 33, was diagnosed with breast cancer in May of this year.

The HR manager, who works at One Advice Group financial services in Sale, backed the charity's calls for comprehensive cancer strategies to run until at least 2020.

She and Messenger editor Lynn Hughes were among the first people to sign a Cancer Research UK petition placing pressure on the Government to devise a new cancer strategy beyond 2011.

Following the presentation of the petition complete with a quarter of a million signatures to Downing Street, the Government has now committed to building a new cancer strategy.

Health secretary Patricia Hewitt announced the new plans - that include driving up quality and increasing value for money in the NHS - as she addressed the cancer community at the Britain Against Cancer conference.

Nicola, who is married to Simon, said: "Being told I had breast cancer left me dumbstruck and in complete shock. I'm young, never smoked, always looked after my health and there is no history of breast cancer in my family.

"Fortunately, I had access to private health care which has helped to save my life. Because of my age I would have had to wait three months just to be seen by a consultant through the NHS.

"In those three months the lump would have grown and my prognosis might have been very different. The kind of chemotherapy I've received and the speed of treatment should be available to anyone who needs it.

"That's why I joined Cancer Research UK in calling on politicians to develop cancer strategies extending until at least 2020. The fact the Government has now committed to doing so is fantastic."

She added: "I would urge all women to check their breasts for lumps and visit their GP immediately if they are concerned.

"While breast cancer does normally affect older women, it can happen to people like me in their 30s and even 20s, so be extra vigilant and don't be afraid to make a fuss if you think there is something wrong."

Editor Lynn Hughes said: "Cancer affects everyone at some level and we felt it was important for us to back this campaign. Our annual fun run, which has raised more than £42,000 for cancer charities in the past three years shows there is great need and support for this campaign."

Nicola faces chemotherapy treatment until January before starting a course of 20 radiotherapy sessions.

Despite experiencing side effects including hair loss, extreme fatigue and nausea, Nicola has remained positive and hopes to complete her treatment before her 34th on March 28.

She and Simon recently took part in Cancer Research UK's All Walk Together 5km sponsored walk and raised about £1500 for research into breast cancer.

To support Nicola's fundraising and find out about her progress visit www.justgiving.com/NicolaEdbury sgreenhalgh@messengergrp.co.uk