Hastings mum diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer at age of 37 praised by Prime Minister Keir Starmer for campaigning to raise awareness of early signs of disease
A Hastings mother spearheading a campaign to raise awareness of the early signs of lung cancer following her own diagnosis has been praised by the Prime Minister for her tireless campaigning.
Jules Fielder has stage 4 lung cancer, the most advanced stage, and was diagnosed with the disease in November 2021 at the age of 37, after finding a lump in her neck.
She spends her time raising awareness through her Instagram account www.instagram.com/just_beingjules, which has more than 37,000 followers.
In February Jules joined Boots in launching a nationwide awareness campaign to help people spot early signs and symptoms of lung cancer.
She met the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in March, who sent her a letter, which Jules shared on her Instagram page.
In the letter, sent on March 30, the PM said he was 'moved' by Jules' campaigning.
He added: “The nationwide launch of the awareness campaign in Boots stores is testament to your (Jules') work - to challenge the stigma around lung cancer, and to promote earlier testing and diagnosis.”
The PM said in his letter to Jules that the campaign was something she should be 'incredibly proud of'.
He then offered his 'sincere thanks' for her 'significant and successful campaigning'.
When Boots launched its campaign a spokesperson said: “For the 49,000 people diagnosed with lung cancer each year, many of the early signs of the disease, such as a lingering cough, back ache or tiredness, are overlooked and are often managed for long periods at home with over-the-counter remedies before seeking important medical attention.”
Boots said it has placed 'clear, eye-catching' signage next to commonly purchased medicines used to treat mild symptoms, like cold and flu relief, cough medicine and pain relief.
It added that it has introduced awareness materials in its pharmacy consultation rooms.
Last year Jules met with Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Hastings and Rye MP Helena Dollimore to talk about her campaigning.
Ms Dollimore said: "The Prime Minister has rightly recognised all of the campaigning Jules has been doing to help others get quicker, earlier diagnosis and tackle the stigma surrounding lung cancer. All of us in Hastings are wishing Jules a swift recovery after her recent stay in hospital and I’m very proud of all she has achieved despite her illness.”