A cancer survivor who organised a fun day to warn others about the symptoms left the event “on a high”.

Zaynab Mirza, of Beaufort Park, Hendon, almost died because doctors failed to spot a tumour on her ovaries for more than five years.

The 45-year-old invited people to Stephen’s House, in East Finchley, for a pamper session to find out more about the disease.

More than 150 people turned up to the day, which included a face painting corner, a pamper area and sessions for children to find out more about the disease.

Ms Mirza said: “I left on a high so I obviously did something good. Everyone said they came because they had a connection with cancer.

“It just makes you realise, it touches so many people. It’s so important to spread the message. Everything we achieved on the day we managed to – we’re so proud.

“I’ve been touched and overwhelmed by the good responses I’ve had since the event.”

The makeup artist raised £2,000 for the Eve Appeal, Target Ovarian Cancer and Ovarian Cancer Action on the day – but the final figure is still being counted.

Her six-year-old daughter, Iman proudly told guests and visitors her mother had organised the event herself.

Mrs Mirza spent five years in “crippling” pain and was diagnosed with cancer while on holiday in Bahrain in August 2013.

Doctors in England failed to supply her with an adequate treatment plan, so she flew back to the Middle Eastern country to have the tumour removed two months later – and discovered it had grown from 8cm to 21cm.

She said: “I want to empower women to look after their own bodies, and people to be more aware about the signs of cancer.

“I’m lucky to be alive.”