A story which generates faith in humankind and the inspiration to be audacious

I had the privilege to be invited to the great hall in Edinburgh castle last week for an evening do. It was quite an experience and made me feel special even though I had only done the same as 111,000 other women across the UK - taken part in the Breakthrough Cancer study, which was initiated and led by Professor Anthony Swerdlow. I was able to talk directly to this amazing man, and it is his vision and determination, and what we can learn from it, which I would like to share with you today.


Quick Quote

“He whose ranks are united in purpose will be victorious.” ~ Sun Tzu

A story which generates faith in humankind and the inspiration to be audacious
Professor Swerdlow's audacious vision:

•create a study of 100,000 women over 40 years to allow scientists to identify the factors which contribute to the development of breast cancer

His achievement after 10 years:

•111,000 women across the UK have contributed to the Breakthrough Generations study after 10 years and exciting new discoveries are already being unearthed

This has been possible both because of the individual leader and because of the united masses:

1. Professor Anthony Swerdlow was prepared to ask for funding for a 40 year project (the first response was that he was mad) and believed it was possible when others were doubtful.

2. 111,000 women in Britain were united in the desire to give valuable time and blood samples because they believed their contribution could help, with no immediate personal gain. Only the first few women were asked directly by Breakthrough Generations to participate. Incredibly nearly everyone has taken part having been introduced to it by friends and family.

What are you afraid to try / ask for?

Is there anything which you would like to achieve or change but are afraid to try? Is there a bigger cause which you would like to stick your neck out for or is there something within your organisation, business or home which you would like to change? This could be anything from developing a new charity to asking to go part-time, implementing a new business idea or asking someone for help. Are you afraid of failing, being rejected or being told "no"? My advice:

•Create a clear vision of what you'd like to achieve or change (be audacious!)

•Have faith in human spirit - most people are helpful and understanding, and garner support wherever possible

•Just ask - you never know!

If you would like help clarifying your vision or overcoming the barriers to achieving your vision / making a particular change, coaching can really help you - if you just ask! It's amazing what you can achieve with support. Just email anna@balancedmum.com or ring 07764 235394 to discuss how I can help you or find more information on http://www.balancedmum.com/.

The aim of this newsletter is not to recruit more people for the study but if you are interested in finding out more, their website is http://www.breakthroughgenerations.org./uk