Tag Archives: Breast Cancer Awareness

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Breast cancer survivors Teresa Costello (left) and Emma Hannigan, who has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer for the tenth time

Online car insurance provider Its4Women.ie will donate €4 to Breast Cancer Ireland for every story shared on its4breastcancer.ie during the month of October, breast cancer awareness month.

Its4Women will commission an Irish designer to collate the stories into a piece of art which will be donated to Professor Arnold Hill’s Clinic in Beaumont Hospital.

Author Emma Hannigan writes:

A breast cancer diagnosis evokes a myriad of emotions. When I was diagnosed at first I vowed that I would stand up and fight. But most of all, I vowed I wouldn’t allow cancer to silence me. So much control is removed by a cancer diagnosis. I know I was thrust into an unfamiliar world where hospitals slowly became the norm.”

“But I swiftly realised that I could still be me. By talking and listening to other patients, I also knew that I wasn’t alone.”

“I’m supporting this campaign because I want to encourage women across Ireland to come together and share their unique experiences this October. Don’t allow cancer to silence you. Raise your voices and be heard. Let’s fight the good fight, together.”

Teresa Costello writes:

“I was 36 years old when I was diagnosed. I wasn’t breast aware nor did I check my breasts. By chance while in the shower I found a lump. My doctor wasn’t overly concerned but to be extra vigilant he sent me to St James’s Hospital.

“I had three tumors and dimpling on my breast. My treatment plan was 8 sessions of Chemo, Mastectomy and immediate reconstruction and Radiation. I finished my treatment May 2014 and thankfully, after what was a whirlwind of a year, I am very much back to myself.

“I have a Facebook page called Breast Friends which provides support & advice to people affected by breast cancer. If there is one piece of advice I can give to others it’s to check your breasts regularly, know them and if there are changes or you are concerned something isn’t right get straight to your GP. Early detection is vital in winning the fight.”

Stories can be submitted here

Breast Cancer Ireland