Kildare cancer patient appeals for cancer society support

A BREAST cancer patient Lydia Whelan from Monasterevin is supporting the Irish Cancer Society's Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign and encouraging the public to host a Big Pink Breakfast to help fund vital breast cancer support services and life-changing breast cancer research projects.

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

Lydia Whelan (33) from Monasterevin, Co. Kildare was diagnosed with stage two HER2+ breast cancer in July 2024, after she noticed her left breast looked bruised, sunken in, and was heavier than her right breast.

She went to her GP who sent her for further tests, including a biopsy. She went for the results of her biopsy, where she received her diagnosis.

Lydia said: “The doctor started speaking, and he said he had my biopsy results, and he was sorry to have to inform me that I had breast cancer.

“I just froze, and then there were a lot of tears from me and my partner, Colm. I asked what stage the cancer was at, and he said, going from what he could see on the scans, it looked like stage two. And I thought, OK, that’s not the worst.” 

Lydia has been receiving chemotherapy every three weeks since August 2024 and is sharing her experience to encourage people to either host or attend a Big Pink Breakfast and support people like her who have been affected by breast cancer.

Lydia says: “I would encourage everyone to please get behind the Big Pink Breakfast 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 sign up at cancer.ie/pink”. 

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 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.” 

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 cancer research projects.