16 years ago I lost my lovely ma to breast cancer. She had a mastectomy but didn't survive long enough to recover from this surgery or need reconstruction. At the same time she was ill, so was my mother-in-law, Kate. Thankfully she is still with us, having had a double mastectomy. My sister-in-law, Paula, had her own battle with breast cancer and had a mastectomy too.

As part of their recovery, first Paula and then Kate have been helped by the wonderful Nipple Innovation Project, or NIP. This charity helps men and women who have had breast surgery by tattooing 3D realistic tattoos of nipples, or by creating tattoo art to cover the surgical stars if the recipient prefers. Until recently, the only help on the NHS was a not very convincing tattoo that would fade and need reworking over time, which is painful and harms the skin. Thankfully now NIP has received NHS Accreditation which means they can receive referrals from some NHS trusts - a seal of approval!

I think what they do is great, and I know how much Paula and Kate value the help they've had.

So, to raise much needed funds (the cost is £250 per nipple!) and awareness (I had no idea a bout this until Paula told me) I am getting a tattoo of a realistic nipple on May 8th, but only if we reach our fundraising target.

Please sponsor me if you can. When you do, leave a comment with where on my body you think I should get inked, and the funniest one will receive 4 tickets to the Boobs and Balls comedy show I'm hosting at the Shay Stadium, Halifax, on 4th May as my guests of honour. I'll bring you backstage to meet the star of the show, Maisie Adam and buy you a drink or two.