That was, until last week. On a mundane motorway trip, the middle aged man in me decided to tune into Five Live’s phone-in, where it became apparent from a barrage of callers that Jade Goody had done something amazing – she had single handedly increased awareness of cervical cancer. Women of all ages were calling the show, telling the world that, thanks to the potent images of Jade in recent weeks, they had booked smear tests with their GPs. This is absolutely extraordinary. I am an avid believer that there is no greater feat than saving a life, and Mrs. Goody may have just done that a hundred times over.

The footage of Jade reacting to her chemotherapy is brutal, but necessary, as it shows the reality of the situation: hair loss, weakness and nausea. However, it’s when the camera focuses on Mrs. Goody in a tight embrace with her husband and children that we see where the real sadness of the situation lies.

Her children will lose a mother and her husband will lose a wife.

If Jade’s programs and the increasing news footage teach us anything, its that life is far too short. We’ve got to do the utmost to keep our health, and, just as importantly, our family.

I wish Jade eternal peace.

For information on smear tests please visit: http://www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk/cervical/