Courage on the Catwalk model Mae Thomson will regard May 13 as a day to remember.
She will be cheered on by her loved ones as she takes to the runway for the event finale, and there will extra cause for cheer because she will be toasting her 80th birthday at the same time.
She said: “I’m very much looking forward to the weekend. To be surrounded by friends and family and doing something exciting will be a wonderful way to celebrate a birthday.”
Ms Thomson admits she was a little nervous when she received the call, confirming she would be part of the 24-strong line-up of women at the Beach Ballroom who have received a cancer or blood disorder diagnosis.
She added: “I’m sure all the models were apprehensive, but I feel so relaxed when I am at rehearsals.
“We’re all in the same boat, trying to achieve the same thing. What impressed me, right from the very first time we met, was that there was no talk of cancer, chemotherapy or treatment; just a group of women enjoying each other’s company and setting everything else aside.
“I think it’s a brilliant experience.”
Having been diagnosed with breast cancer in 1986 and bone cancer in 2012, she insists the disease is not foremost in her mind.
She said: “Whenever someone asks me how I’m feeling, I say ‘I’m fine’, which is true. Every now and then someone will ask more in-depth questions about what I’ve been through.
“When I relay everything to them, it feels as though I am speaking about someone else. I’m really lucky because I am not in any pain or discomfort, so it’s easier for me to remain very positive.”
That mindset has seen Mae through two diagnoses, the first of which came when she was aged 48 and the Anchor Unit – as it is now – didn’t even exist.
Ms Thomson added: “Back then, I went to Woolmanhill and was referred to Foresterhill for a mammogram.
“I was phoned that evening with the results, and the best advice I was given was to think positive thoughts and be truthful with my loved ones. For me, that was imperative.
“When I was given the second diagnosis of bone cancer, an inoperable and therefore incurable cancer, I was taken off guard, but as my niece pointed out: ’You kicked its butt last time, so I’m sure you will do it again this time.’
“I am very fortunate to get a chemo-based treatment every three weeks in the comfort of my own home. I would like to give a special thank you to the nurses from Healthcare at Home. They are amazing.”
She spends much of her time out and about with friends, dancing and bowling and declares her twin sisters Wilma and Christian have been her rocks.
As she added: “Life is so precious and I feel truly blessed with my family and circle of friends who are always there to support me.”
She also has praise for the teams in the Anchor Unit, where she attends every three months for chemotherapy for bone cancer.
She said: “The wellbeing services provided by Friends of Anchor are very relaxing. I’ve had my nails done, a foot massage and shoulder massage. The nurses and clinical staff are wonderful.
“I feel in awe of the NHS, from the lassie who hands me a cup of tea, right through to the top people. They are all so dedicated and caring.”
A limited number of balcony tickets are available for the Courage on the Catwalk shows. Tickets cost £25, which includes a drink on arrival, finger food bowl and foodie favour.
For more information and to secure your tickets, email foa.admin@friendsofanchor.org or call 01224 859170.