After announcing earlier this week that she had days to live, BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Rachael Bland has died aged 40 after dealing with cancer for two years.

Surrounded by family, Rachael’s husband, Steve said in a statement: “She was an incredibly talented broadcaster as well as a wonderful and much loved daughter, sister, aunt, niece, wife and, most importantly to her, a mother to her precious little Freddie.”

“We all take such huge comfort and pride from the amazing and tireless work she has done since her diagnosis to reduce the stigma around cancer and prove that it is possible to live life to the fullest even when facing huge challenges on a daily basis. At the end, even though her body was at its weakest, her voice was at its strongest and most powerful.

He describes her as “perfect in every way”, adding “we will miss her more than words can say”.

Over the past two years Bland documented how she’s dealt with cancer in her blog and podcast, You, Me and the Big C – winning several awards for her work.

Bland’s work has touched and helped many people going through similar health issues, which is why we’ve outlined some ways you can continue to highlight her work by doing a few small and simple things. 

Listen to You, Me and the Big C

Hosted by Bland, Deborah James and Lauren Mahon the podcast delves into every important question and query about what it’s like to have cancer. And it’s truly changed the conversation around the disease.

Bland also blogged about her treatment through recurrent triple-negative breast cancer, too. 

You can listen to her podcast here and read her blog here. 

What not to say to someone with cancer 

Earlier this year, Bland, James and Mahon all popped into the Stylist offices to share their tips on what you should avoid saying to someone with cancer.

Candid, funny and downright frank, watch the ladies share the worst (and the best) things people have said to them since being diagnosed. 

Check your breasts 

Checking your breasts only takes 10 minutes, and yet it’s something that we’re all guilty of not doing. Why not just do it today? Simply follow our easy steps below:

1) Get to know what is normal for you: All boobs are different and nobody knows your body better than you do. So make sure you check once a month, using whatever method you are comfortable with.

2) LOOK and FEEL: A lump isn’t the only sign and symptom of breast cancer. Some symptoms you wouldn’t notice just by feeling your boobs, so it is important to have a good look too, and pay special attention to your nipples.

3) Unusual changes: There are a few changes to be aware of when checking your boobs. Click here for all the signs and symptoms.

4) Collarbone and armpit: You also have breast tissue right up to your collar bone and in your armpit, therefore it is important to check this whole area, not just your boobs.

5) If in doubt, get it checked out: If you notice anything unusual for you, then always go to see your doctor, as they have seen it all before and will be able to properly check you over.

You can also read more information on the NHS website. 

Support your friend 

Throughout the month of October, people will be hosting coffee mornings and talks to raise awareness for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

It is a stark truth that breast cancer is still the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the UK, and the second most common cancer diagnosed in women aged under 35. Sadly, not many of us can say we don’t know someone affected by it.

So, why not get involved? From hosting a pink day at work or evening soiree with friends, you can easily show you care and raise some money for cancer charities, too.

If you fancy getting something planned for 12 October with your friends then you can download a Big Pink party kit here. 

Images: BBC / Unsplash