I want to inspire, says male breast cancer patient

A former RAF serviceman from Hull has told of his breast cancer ordeal.

Neil Ferriby was diagnosed with the condition in 2025, and will be the only male patient among 24 models taking part in a London fashion show organised by the Breast Cancer Now.

According to the charity, about 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK.

Ferriby said he was taking part to "be an inspiration and get males checking their own chest for any signs and symptoms".

He said he initially thought he had pulled a muscle in his chest, but after noticing a lump he was encouraged by family and friends to get a check up.

Ferriby was then diagnosed with breast cancer.

He said: "For me, it's just been a long road through chemotherapy. In my right side I've also developed lymphedema, which is basically when the fluids gather up in your arm."

Ferriby has set out to raise awareness about breast cancer in men, and said he found some men "still think they can't get it".

"They didn't realise that they had breast tissue like women, and it's just driven me more towards raising awareness," he said.

He said that was the reason he wanted to take part in the fashion show.

"It's an honour," he said.

"I've been putting on Facebook that I'm Hull's next top model, to try and raise awareness."

Ferriby said he wanted to restore his confidence.

"This is the new me and I'm not that stranger in the dark no more with all the scars.

"It's bringing the real you out again because getting a breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of gender, is quite tough."

The show will take place on 14 May at the Mansion House, London.

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