As Ann Summers founder Jacqueline Gold dies of breast cancer – the 6 symptoms you must know
BUSINESS woman Jacqueline Gold has tragically died aged 62, her family has announced.
The Ann Summers founder had been receiving treatment for breast cancer.
Jacqueline’s family announced her death with “unspeakable sadness” today.
They said she died with her husband, daughter, sister and brother-in-law by her side.
It comes just two months after the passing of her father, David Gold, the Joint-Chairman of West Ham United FC.
Jacqueline’s sister Vanessa said: “Jacqueline courageously battled stage 4 breast cancer for seven years and was an absolute warrior throughout her cancer journey.
“In life she was a trailblazer, a visionary, and the most incredible woman, all of which makes this news that much harder to bear.
“As a family, we are utterly heartbroken at the loss of our wife, mum, sister, and best friend”.
Around 55,000 women and 370 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK, according to charity Breast Cancer Now.
Every year around 11,500 women and 85 men die from breast cancer in the UK – that’s nearly 1,000 deaths each month, 31 each day or one every 45 minutes.
It’s the fourth most common cause of cancer death in the UK.
There are many different signs and symptoms of the illness, but Breast Cancer Now states the most common six are:
- A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit. You might feel the lump, but not see it.
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- A change in skin texture i.e. puckering or dimpling of the skin
- A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look red or inflamed
- Rash, crusting or changes to the nipple
- Any unusual discharge from either nipple
Reacting to the news of Jacqueline’s death today, Baroness Delyth Morgan, Chief Executive at Breast Cancer Now said: “We’re devastated to hear of the death of Jacqueline Gold CBE to secondary breast cancer.
“We send our love and support to her friends and family, and anyone affected by the news today.
“Jacqueline was a fierce supporter of Breast Cancer Now and a campaigner for women with breast cancer.
“Jacqueline and Ann Summers have both raised awareness of breast cancer, broken down stigmas and taboos associated with the disease, and fundraised over £250,000 for Breast Cancer Now’s vital research and support services.”
If you are worried about any of your symptoms you should see a GP.
Anyone seeking information and support can speak to Breast Cancer Now’s expert nurses by calling the charity’s free Helpline on 0808 800 6000.