Breast cancer survivor asks us to support Big Pink Breakfast

Breast cancer survivor Teresa Hanniffy from Mullingar is supporting the Irish Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign and encouraging the public to host a Big Pink Breakfast to help fund breast cancer support services and life-changing research projects.

Every year, around 3,600 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland.

Teresa was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer in July 2019, after she noticed a lump in one of her breasts. Her GP referred her to a breast clinic for tests, which revealed her diagnosis.

Mother-of-two Teresa said: “They said what I didn’t want to hear – that I had breast cancer. It felt surreal. It’s like you’re in a different room, and the doctor and nurse are actors in a scene. It’s a bit of a shock. My reaction was to think of my family, of my two children, Sara and Luca, who were nine and seven at the time.”

Teresa’s treatment included surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. She is now doing well and was relieved when she passed the five-year mark since her cancer diagnosis. She still goes for scans, which have all come back clear.

“Breast cancer is a thing of the past for me now,” said Teresa. “I still go for check-ups, but I’m definitely proof that you can still have a good life after a cancer diagnosis.

“You’ll feel like a different person, because you’ve managed to get through something that was initially terrifying, but you did it and you realised there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

Teresa is sharing her story to encourage people to support the Big Pink Breakfast campaign: “I would encourage everyone to please get behind it, as 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.”

Mary O’Kelly, cancer nurse with the Irish Cancer Society, said: “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 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.”

If you are concerned about breast cancer, call the Irish Cancer Society’s Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700. You can also find out more at www.cancer.ie.

This October the Irish Cancer Society is encouraging people to host a Big Pink Breakfast in their homes, workplaces, communities and colleges to raise funds to support breast cancer support services such as free counselling, transport to treatment, Night Nursing and much more.

Funds raised will also be used to fund ground-breaking breast cancer research projects. To learn more or get involved, see: cancer.ie/pink.