Dear Madam, - I know only too well that when you have breast cancer, everything changes. Even the things written on your calendar; birthdays, holidays and yoga classes might have mastectomy, MRI scan or lymph node removal scribbled next to them. Time becomes measured in appointments. The next scan. The next results. The next challenge.

My sister Lynn was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002. She noticed a large lump in her breast while filming in Australia. I know her first thought was: ‘How could that have gotten there without my noticing it?’ Her treatment was tough; chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. I stayed with her. I saw the day her hair fell out. I saw her mastectomy scars.

Sadly the breast cancer came back and spread. We lost Lynn five years ago.

Every year 55,000 are diagnosed with this brutal disease in the UK. All of these people need care, support and information - which is why Breast Cancer Care’s work is so vital.

I want your readers to pass this on to anyone affected by breast cancer: from day one Breast Cancer Care will be there for you.

They understand the emotions, challenges and decisions you face every day. Call their nurses free on 0808 800 6000 or visit breastcancercare.org.uk.

Thank you, Yours faithfully, Vanessa Redgrave, for Breast Cancer Care