Picture:Irish Cancer Society
Dundalk breast cancer survivor Caroline O’Donnell is encouraging people across Louth to support the Irish Cancer Society’s Pink campaign during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The 50-year-old mother of three was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2022 after discovering a lump in her left breast a few months earlier.
Caroline, who was working as an ICU nurse during the Covid pandemic at the time, initially delayed getting the lump checked because of how busy life had become.
She eventually sought medical advice in early 2022 and received her diagnosis.
‘I felt that I had to be strong’
Caroline’s children were aged 10, seven and six when she was diagnosed.
“My children were aged 10, 7 and 6 when I was diagnosed. I felt that I had to be strong and show no emotion in front of my husband and kids.
“I was actually talking to one of the nurses in Beaumont Hospital, and she said don’t keep it from the kids, tell them, and she gave me a booklet. So I told them what I’d be going through but to try not to worry.”
Her treatment included a left-side mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Caroline finished active treatment in November 2022 and says she is now doing well.
“I’m delighted that there are no issues now.
“I felt relief when my doctor told me she was happy with how everything went, but I always have that worry about reoccurrence in the back of my head. But the team in Beaumont are very good at reassuring me.”
Supporting the Pink campaign
Caroline is now sharing her experience to encourage others to support the Irish Cancer Society’s Pink campaign, which runs throughout October.
The campaign raises money for free cancer supports including counselling, transport to treatment, and Night Nursing, as well as breast cancer research.
Caroline said:
“I would encourage everyone to please get behind the Pink campaign. A huge amount of the funding for the Irish Cancer Society’s breast cancer support services and breast cancer research projects comes from donations made by the public.
“If you are at all able, please support this important cause. You can donate or register your fundraising event at cancer.ie/pink.”
The Irish Cancer Society’s latest figures estimate that around 4,000 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland each year.
Know what is normal for you
Mary O’Kelly, Cancer Nurse with the Irish Cancer Society, said people should be aware of changes in their breasts and seek medical advice if they notice something unusual that persists.
“Self-examination is so important for women of all ages, even those who are eligible for screening, as this only takes place every two years. Pick a date and try to do it as consistently as you can on a monthly basis.
“It’s really important that we are breast aware and know what is normal for us. If you notice any of the signs or symptoms of breast cancer and the change persists, please go to see your GP as soon as possible.
“Women can sometimes feel embarrassed or uncomfortable attending their GP with breast issues, but this examination could save your life. Your GP will perform a routine examination of your breast and if appropriate, refer you for further assessment.”
The Irish Cancer Society advises people to be aware of changes including a new lump or thickening, changes in the size or shape of a breast, skin changes, nipple changes, or persistent pain in part of the breast or armpit.
Anyone concerned about breast cancer can contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700.
People can also host their own Pink fundraising event during October at home, in work, in college or within their community.
More information, donations, and event registration are available at cancer.ie/pink.
