Breast cancer survivor urges public to ‘get behind’ pink campaign
Cillian Ferry
A Mallow breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer 11 years ago is encouraging people across Cork and beyond to support the Irish Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign by hosting a Pink event this October.
Marian Buckley, 61, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014 after feeling tired and noticing a sensation in her right breast that “just didn’t feel right”.
She was diagnosed with stage 4 invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer and underwent five months of chemotherapy, surgery and took part in a cancer trial before being told there was no longer a sign of cancer. She has now been in remission for the last 11 years.
Marian completed a walking challenge for Irish Cancer Society in June, walking 216 miles total and raising over €3,700. Her message is to “stay positive.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. Put your trust in the treatments and get out and move. Continue eating, especially protein. Sitting inside and feeling sorry isn’t going to help. The word cancer sounds scary, but the Irish Cancer Society gives hope. Hoped stands for helping out people every day.”
Marian is sharing her story to raise awareness of breast cancer and encourage people to support the Pink campaign to help people who, like her, who have been affected by breast cancer.
She 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.”
Every year, around 3,600 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland.
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,” she added.
“If you are concerned about breast cancer, call the Irish Cancer Society’s Support Line on Freephone 1800-200700. You can also find out more at www.cancer.ie.”
This October, the Irish Cancer Society is encouraging people to host pink events 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.