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Dennis Hogan, 66, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in December 2022. He shares his story alongside his daughter, Rachel Hogan, 29, who remembers what it was like to see her dad grapple with his diagnosis and treatment. Read more about Dennis and Rachel's story by clicking the link.

"It absolutely never occurred to me that my symptoms could have been brain cancer." Séamus Conaty was diagnosed with brain cancer after experiencing persistent headaches. Read Seamus' story by clicking the link.

Mother-of-two Sharon O’Connor has been experiencing housing instability while living with cancer. Click the link to read more.

Akin Ogunniyi, 53, says he is lucky to survive prostate cancer and wants to share his story to anyone else who may be going through something similar.

Elaine O’Callaghan, from Cork, had never heard of eye cancer or ocular melanoma before she went in for a routine eye examination in 2018. Click the link to read more about Elaine's story.

Dora Litean-Tataru, 36, from Romania now living in Portlaoise, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, 5 years after her initial diagnosis of melanoma. Read more about Dora's story by clicking the link.

“I try to think of essential thrombocytosis as a blood disorder, more so than a cancer, as that word is extremely scary to me." Click the link to read Laura's story.

Three years ago, Laura Dennehy, now 31, was starting a course in midwifery, caring for her son and planning a wedding with her partner. Then she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Click the link to read more.

Lee was diagnosed with a rare, slow-growing skin cancer called dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) after living with the tumour for 7 years. Read more about Lee's story by clicking the link.

Fiona was diagnosed with melanoma after her colleagues encouraged her to get a mole on her arm checked. Read more about Fiona's story by clicking the link.

Dave Dowling, 80, knows he’s “mad to be doing it,” but it isn’t stopping him from jumping out of a plane and fundraising for Irish Cancer Society by skydiving.

“Bowel cancer is not just an older person’s diagnosis anymore, it also affects younger people, so be aware of any symptoms and go to your doctor. You know your own body, and you know when something’s wrong.” Click the link to read more.

Meet Prof Christina Fleming, an Irish Cancer Society-funded researcher who is working on a nationwide study called RECTIFY which is assessing the survivorship needs of people who have been treated for rectal cancer. Click the link to read more.

“I really want to shine a light on the fact that younger people under 50 can and are getting bowel cancer.” Click the link to read more.

“I will never forget the first phone call from the Irish Cancer Society Peer Support volunteer. She gave me hope that life really can go on." Click the link to read more.

When Claire Fagan had stomach pain, she had her appendix out - though her symptoms didn't go away. She was ultimately diagnosed with Stage four Bowel Cancer. Click the link to read more.

Robert Flanagan, 48, from Portlaoise was diagnosed with rectal cancer in January 2024, after he initially attributed his symptoms to piles. Click the link to read more.

“I had to interrupt and say, ‘sorry when you say tumour, do you mean cancer?’" Read more of Lana's cancer story by clicking the link.

Ellie-Mai Murphy, from Athlone, was just 18 years old when she was diagnosed with leukaemia. Click the link to learn more.

Jim Ahern was diagnosed with bowel cancer after a BowelScreen test detected traces of blood. “I did BowelScreen in 2020 and 2022, and there were no problems,” says Jim. Click the link to read more.

Celebrated GAA star Martin McHugh shares his story of being diagnosed with testicular cancer, and then prostate cancer several years later. He was successfully treated for both cancers. Click the link to learn more.

“I hope someone can learn from my experience, if one person could be diagnosed at an earlier stage.” Read more of Martyna's cancer story by clicking the link.

“Had I just had the attitude, ‘ah just get on with it’ and not gone to get myself checked out, maybe my cancer would have been detected much later”

“I can only describe it as a heaviness, a weight that is put on you that you didn’t ask for – that’s how I felt being told I have cancer.”

“Don’t be afraid to ask the questions, ask what something means or push for answers. If you catch things early enough, it can make a massive difference.” In early 2020, Dublin musician Glenn Keating noticed he was feeling more tired than usual. Read more by clicking the link.

When Linda O’Riordan McCarthy was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in March 2022 at age 48, it came about after she experienced ongoing issues with swallowing food.

At age three, Sophia-Grace Conway received her first cancer diagnosis after a brain tumour was discovered during a scan. The young girl then had two cancer recurrences, one in 2019 and another in 2020. Click the link to learn more.

Meet Dr David O'Reilly, an Irish Cancer Society-funded researcher who is working on a project looking at using liquid biopsies to improve outcomes for patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Click the link to read more.

Marcus Humphries, 59, from Dublin is currently living with prostate cancer. Marcus is a delivery driver for phs Ireland and has worked with the company as a service driver for around 18 years installing and repairing washroom products for the hygiene provider.

Semi-retired stationary salesman Gerry Connolly, 69, from Donegal was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2013.

Declan Costello, 60, from Rush, Co. Dublin was diagnosed with lung cancer in January 2025 after he developed a cough that wouldn’t go away, a sudden loss of appetite and significant weight loss. Click the link to read his story.

Meet Kate, an Irish Cancer Society-funded researcher who is working on a project looking at understanding how cancer cells know to spread from the prostate to the bone, as that’s where advanced prostate cancer usually spreads to. Click the link to read more.

Meet Dr Rosie O'Shea, an Irish Cancer Society-funded researcher who is working on a project to reduce waiting times for people seeking genetic counselling to asses their risk of developing an inherited cancer. Click the link to read more.

“I knew straight away it was something that needed to be looked at." Aged 37, mother of two Emma Aspell was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023. Click the link to learn more.

Gerry Kelly, 67, from Cork was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2021. His cancer was discovered as a result of a routine blood test that showed a high PSA (prostate-specific antigen) level. Read his full story by clicking the link.

When Anne Bodley first noticed a discomfort in her chest, she never imagined it would lead to a breast cancer diagnosis. Click the link to learn more.

Donna Ray, 37, from Moyross in Limerick was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2024 after she noticed some unusual changes in her breast. Click the link to learn more.

When Anne Bodley first noticed a discomfort in her chest, she never imagined it would lead to a breast cancer diagnosis. Click the link to learn more.

“If you notice any changes in your body, get them checked out. It could be nothing, but it could be something as well – and the only person who can make that informed judgement is a doctor.” Click the link to learn more.

“Definitely get any lumps that you find checked by your GP. I’m sure that if I didn’t go to the GP when I did, if I’d waited a few months, things could’ve turned out extremely differently for me.” Click the link to read Teresa's story.

Sharon Smyth was lying in bed one morning when she decided to do a breast check. This was in October 2012, and Sharon was surprised when she found a small lump. Click the link to learn more.

Irish author & breast cancer survivor Patricia Scanlan urges the public to back the Irish Cancer Society’s Big Pink Breakfast 2025

Meet Jay, an Irish Cancer Society-funded researcher who is working on a project looking at identifying potential new treatment targets for people with triple negative breast cancer. Click the link to read more.

"If I’d waited another five or six weeks to go to my GP, the cancer would’ve progressed and my prognosis and treatment would’ve been a lot different.” Click the link to learn more.

Marie Shannon, 63, from Killarney, Co. Kerry, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023 after a routine mammogram. Click the link to learn more.

When Lydia Whelan was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2024 at age 32, it came as a shock. Click the link to learn more.

First diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007, 46-year-old mother of five Lisa McCaffrey has had cancer in her life for over 18 years. Click the link to learn more.

Helen McKinney Russell found a lump in her left breast by accident when she was in the shower in April 2025. Click the link to learn more.

On the 10th of March 2020, Fiona Mannion from County Mayo was called to attend Breast Check for the first time.

"Hearing the word 'cancer' at the age of 19 was surreal." Click the link to read Joel's story.

Tracey Judge became concerned after she had torn her pectoral muscle, and noticed her nipple was bleeding. Click the link to learn more.

“I had fatigue and I had night sweats, but it was during the summer, and I was really busy with work, so it was easy for me to write those symptoms off." Click the link to read more of Emma's story.

Richard Kennedy shares how support from the Irish Cancer Society helped him as he recovered from treatment for lymphoma in his duodenum. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Meet Eimear, an Irish Cancer Society-funded researcher who is working on a project to potentially develop a new treatment path for children with a type of aggressive brain cancer called glioblastoma. Click the link to read more.

Meet Grainne, an Irish Cancer Society-funded researcher who is working on a project on how to best support people affected by head and neck cancer to engage in exercise after treatment. Click the link to read more.

Big tobacco targeting young people at summer festivals, warns Irish Cancer Society

Alythea Synnott decided to undergo a private health check after losing her aunty to breast cancer. Click the link to learn more.

"I never thought it could’ve been cancer, I just assumed it was mastitis because I’d been breastfeeding." Click the link to read Sarah's story.

Declan Whelan's cancer diagnosis came about after he experienced a number of worrying symptoms. Read his full story by clicking the link.

“Before I went on foreign holidays, I would’ve done a few sunbeds but now I’m paying the price for it, and it certainly wasn’t worth it.” Read more about Gill story by clicking the link.

“If sharing mine and my late husband’s story even gets one person to check a mole they're not sure of, put on sunscreen as they’re waiting for the kettle to boil, or even gets someone second-guessing getting a tan this summer, I don't think it will have been shared in vain.”

"A tan is not worth the risk. You always think skin cancer will never happen to you, but it can." Read more about Jane Murray's skin cancer story by clicking the link.

“I was very healthy, I ran a lot, I walked the dogs every day, and at no point did I ever feel unwell or like I had cancer.” Click the link to read Kay's story.

Before receiving the life-changing news while 30 weeks pregnant, Erica might have assumed her maternity leave would be banked and saved for a time when she could use it to care for and bond with her baby girl Róise after her treatment had finished. Read more by clicking the link.

“Don’t look in the rearview mirror – the only way is forward. You have to push through it, and things will get better." Click the link to read more.

“My nana had breast cancer 20 years ago, we lost mam to lung cancer in 2020, and now I find myself in my mid-20s with bowel cancer.”

“When I was told it was cancer, it felt like my whole world just collapsed. I wanted to use a lot of bad language, but then my thoughts were just focused on what I needed to do next.” Click the link to read more.

Irish Cancer Society Awareness nurse Michelle Lonergan travels across the country highlighting the signs and symptoms of cancer. “I always found myself coming back to cancer nursing. I find it really fulfilling and rewarding.”

"I wouldn’t have been the type to go to the doctor, I only went because the mole started seeping and bleeding.” Read more about Stephen Gray's skin cancer story by clicking the link.

Laura Hughes shares her experience of treatment delays after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Click the link to learn more.

“Cancer does not just affect health. It affects work, family life, mental health, and finances all at once. Most people think of doctors and treatment but there is a whole life around the diagnosis that gets shaken up, and that is where we come in as Welfare Officers.”

Read our pre-budget submission for 2026, and join our call for proper funding for cancer care. Click the link to learn more.

Hearing the words ‘You have cancer’ at the age of 17 is utterly surreal. Read Alan's full story via the link.

Leona Connolly had been feeling well when her yearly mammogram showed that she had a lump in her breast. Click the link to learn more.

When David Wilkins, who lived in Bray, Co. Wicklow for many years but moved to Co. Carlow in 2024, discovered a small lump in his arm in 2006, he never imagined it would end up being cancer. Click the link to learn more.

Mary O’Callaghan, who lives in North County Dublin, was completely shocked to receive a breast cancer diagnosis three years ago. Click the link to learn more.

As an officer in Dublin Fire Brigade, Robbie Connell is used to dealing with adversity. But nothing could prepare the 53-year-old for the shock of a prostate cancer diagnosis in November last year. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Daffodil Day a family affair for the Daunts from Waterford

30 years ago, Dora Bracken’s hairdresser was diagnosed with cancer. Whilst going through her treatment, she asked Dora to take over selling daffodils for her in support of the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day campaign.

After finishing her course of radiotherapy for early stage breast cancer in October 2020, Carmel wanted to do something to help other patients in future as well as bridge the post-treatment gap between home and hospital.

Ian had his first head and neck cancer diagnosis in 1989 at the age of just 29, and it returned once more in 2003 around his 43rd birthday.

"I am a keen cycler and initially thought the swelling was from the bike saddle and that I had aggravated the area."

In September 2018, following ongoing swelling in her glands, Ciara was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

In April 2024, Nollaig Feehan decided to check her breasts, prompted to do so by a friend who is currently going through breast cancer treatment.

“My research focuses on high-grade serous ovarian cancer, and studying the differences between the primary and metastatic tumours within the one patient." Read more about Adele Connor's work as a cancer researcher.

Public donations allow Irish Cancer Society to fund leading breast cancer research. Click the link to read more.

38 year old Ciara Ní Ghairbhí from Baile an Fheirtéaraigh in Co. Kerry was diagnosed with Ductal carcinoma in situ breast cancer in December 2020. Click the link to learn more.

Lying in bed one evening in June 2023, Jenny Sheahan, a 22-year-old marketing student from Newmarket, Co. Cork, did a breast self-check and found a small lump. Click the link to learn more.

Dad of four Jamie Power, from Lucan in Co. Dublin, woke up on St. Patrick’s Day 2019 with a large lump on the side of his neck. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Emma Muldowney from Dalkey, Co Dublin was 23-years-old when she was told she had Dysgerminoma, a rare form of ovarian tumour. To read more, click the link.

Meet Luke, an Irish Cancer Society funded researcher who is due to begin work on a project which will look at more effective treatments for a form of paediatric blood cancer. Click the link to read his story.

In June 2021, Roseena Doherty had a temperature and sore throat that wouldn’t go away. Click the link to learn more about Roseena's leukaemia story.

47-year-old Maria Murphy was playing with her boisterous 4-year-old son in June 2021 when she noticed something unusual about her breast. Click the link to learn more.

In October 2021, 35-year-old Leona Doyle from Cashel, County Tipperary discovered a lump in one of her breasts. Click the link to learn more.

Lorraine Taylor is a Daffodil Day volunteer in Dublin.

Jean Coulter is a Daffodil Day volunteer in Drogheda, Co. Louth.

Pfizer Ireland recently hosted a very successful virtual coffee morning, raising over €7,000 to support cancer patients during this very challenging time. Click the link to read more.

The determination and resilience of some of the country’s brightest cancer researchers who dealt with immense challenges posed by the pandemic was recognised at the Irish Cancer Society Research Awards on Wednesday. Click the link to read more.

73-year old John Cranfield was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2003. Read his full story via the link.

At the Irish Cancer Society Cookie, we're committed to transparency, and so we have created a cookies policy to ensure we're up to date with the European GDPR regulations. Click the link to learn more.

At the Irish Cancer Society Cookie, we're committed to transparency, and so we have created a privacy policy to ensure we're up to date with the European GDPR regulations. Click the link to learn more.

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This page contains the terms and conditions under which you may use the website https://www.cancer.ie, and its subdomains, https://fundraise.cancer.ie and https://donors.cancer.ie, and how it operates. Click the link to learn more.

Kevin Cullen from Walkinstown in Co. Dublin cycled from Dublin to Dungarvan raising an incredible €42,000 in honour of his fiancée, Aoife O'Donovan, who died aged 30 of non-HPV cervical cancer. Read Kevin's full story by clicking the link.

Studying sarcoma is not just a passion, but also a challenge for Irish Cancer Society funded researcher Dr Gerard Brien. Click the link to read his story.

John Hammond shares what led him to become a volunteer driver. Click the link to read his story in full.

Des Daunt from Waterford has been involved in Daffodil Day since the early 90s and is now the chairperson of his local Daffodil Day committee. Click the link to read his story in full.

Dr Daniel Angelov is a lymphoma researcher. Click the link to read his story.

Aoife McCullough first realised something was amiss when she began to experience pain in her lower abdomen. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Something as simple as a change in his bowel habits was the first tell-tale sign of a problem for bowel cancer survivor Ewan Dunbar. Read his full story by clicking the link.

In 2010, 24-year-old Ann-Marie Durcan from County Mayo discovered a lump in her right breast. Read her full story by clicking the link.

'Being able to pass the baton of care into the safe, professional and caring hands of a Night Nurse was an immense relief.'

In November 2018, Ingrid Gleeson from Malahide was diagnosed with cervical cancer aged 40.

It would take a very special occasion to bring a proud Dubliner like Louise Kidd deep into the heart of rival Kerry territory as the clock strikes midnight on new years, of all evenings

Having survived cancer on six occasions Donegal man and former hospital and tourism manager Paul McLoone says catching his recent bowel cancer early has enabled him to enjoy time with his new granddaughter

Ali McCormack from Co Kildare remembers very well when she first noticed the symptoms before she was diagnosed with bowel cancer.

Antoinette Britton is sharing the diary entries that her late husband, Brian Britton, kept while going through cancer treatment. Read their story by clicking the link.

Niamh Fortune is one of our inspiring patient advocates. Niamh is a member our Irish Cancer Society Public and Patient Involvement Panel, helping us review our research calls and aiding in the decision on what research we should fund. Click the link to read her story in full.

Barbara Blue from Costello, Co. Galway discovered a lump on her breast in June 2022.

Arianna Toolan says she is “grateful every day” that she managed to notice a troubling sign of skin cancer before a small problem had the chance to grow bigger.

It's a testament to how Naomi Brosnan from Kerry always wanted to be a mother in life that it was one of the first things she asked about after being given a life changing cancer diagnosis aged just 17.

Everything changed for Ian Fahey on September 20, 2022. The 47-year-old cyber security consultant was working from his home in Swords when he noticed some blood in his urine.

When the Walsh family from Mayo received the devastating news of daughter Sinéad’s cancer diagnosis, that they began to truly discover the meaning of the term community, read more here.

Alannah Russell from Limerick had never heard of Hodgkins Lymphoma - until she was diagnosed with the condition at the age of 20. Read Alannah's story in full here.

Dublin native & now Sligo local Peter Keating admits he did not get symptoms checked by his GP when they first appeared, read more about his story here.

For Julie, it was through the good fortune of having a doctor who took an interest in her health and was always aware of her family history that she became aware of her own cancer risk. Read more here.

In December 2019, Laura O’Brien, a nurse, midwife and a mum of 4 young boys noticed unusual changes to her right breast. Read more here.

Skin cancer survivor Kenneth Giles managed to get by with a little help from some famous friends when raising money for the Irish Cancer Society through a charity single, read more here.

Geraldine Dunphy from Lucan in Dublin was diagnosed with HER2 breast cancer in September 2018, when she discovered a lump one day after her 37th birthday. Read more by clicking here.

In 2017, Aoife Brady’s dad, John, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The family found the Irish Cancer Society's Volunteer Driver service to be important resource as John went through treatment. Read Aoife's full story by clicking here.

Anne Dolan's breast cancer diagnosis came about after a routine mammogram. Read her full story by clicking the link.

When 46-year-old Aileen Murphy found a lump in her breast, she went to have it assessed straight away. Read her story in full here.

Emma O’Reilly was just 20 when her mother noticed that her neck was slightly swollen. Read about her experience here.

Mary Catherine from Dublin volunteers each week in the Irish Cancer Society Head Office.

“Immunotherapy has changed the face of lung cancer treatment, and is now being given for earlier stage lung cancers, with long term benefit in some cases. So the dream is being realised."

38 year old Ciara Ní Ghairbhí from Baile an Fheirtéaraigh in Co. Kerry was diagnosed with Ductal carcinoma in situ breast cancer in December 2020.

'Trust and communication are vital' - Mary, Irish Cancer Society Night Nurse

33 year old Nadia Powney had just given birth to her first child when she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in May 2021.

Prof Karen Cadoo of St James’s Hospital has dedicated her research to helping people understand this risk and the steps they can take to reduce this, or catch the signs of cancer early.

“When we were engaging with patients with younger children, they would say to us ‘it’s the hair loss that makes my children know I’m sick’. That really struck a chord with us.”

Professor Josephine Hegarty is an Irish Cancer Society funded researcher working on survivorship research at University College Cork.

Darren Campbell, hiking in memory of his cousin Eugene.

Wexford based Liam Galvin was diagnosed with a very rare cancer called Thymic Carcinoma in March 2021, aged 57.

In September 2020, Chris Monaghan was told he had Hodgkin lymphoma.

Looking back on his own experience, the environmental scientist from Co Meath describes himself as having been in a “fog” after receiving the devastating news of his diagnosis of prostate cancer in November 2015.

An 80ft plunge off a bridge provided the unlikely wake-up call for personal trainer Aidan Hunter that would eventually result in his first cancer diagnosis in 2017.

In January 2020 Mags Shelton was on a weekend away when she happened to notice a lump on her breast.

Dr Antoinette Perry is an Assistant Professor in Genetics and Cell Biology at University College Dublin.

"We gathered out thoughts and asked him what was to happen next, he said the prostate and the cancer would be removed, but first I would have to get scans to see if the cancer had spread."

"Three years ago, aged 67, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. It was a terrible shock despite the fact that two of my brothers had previously had prostate cancer."

Cancer can affect anyone, a point most poignantly illustrated by the remarkable story of teenager Jack Darmody and his dad Tim who each went through their own cancer experience at the same time.

Claire on living with stage 3 bowel cancer – ‘Bowel habits aren’t fun to talk about, but it’s necessary’

“You don’t really expect at age 23 to be told you have cancer,” says Jamie Brady from Cavan.

“I’m someone who always got colour without getting sunburn and I still got skin cancer.”

Annmarie Byrne's cancer diagnosis came about after she had a routine blood test. Read her full story by clicking the link.

"Last year I found a lump in my left breast and went to see my doctor. I was 37 and it didn't seem like anything to worry about."

In June 2021, Aisling Murphy, mother of 2, noticed a lump on her right breast, but at 32 with no family history of breast cancer, she didn’t think much of it.

John McMahon, 66, was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018 after a tumour was discovered when he was receiving treatment for a blood clot.

Blood cancer researcher Dr Despina Bazou – ‘People with blood cancers are now living much longer’

In November 2022, 44-year-old Sarah Brady from Co Kildare was sitting at home watching TV when she felt an itch on her left breast. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Megan Pigott was only 20 years old when she discovered a lump in her neck in August 2014. She decided to get it checked out, and it was discovered that she had cancer. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Dublin based communications consultant Brendan Donlon was 48-years-old when he was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer in 2018.

Graeme Sullivan was awarded a three-year Translational Research Fellowship by the Irish Cancer Society.

"The potential to make a difference in someone’s life has always motivated me when caring for cancer patients."

Liz Dollard shares her passion for volunteering at the Irish Cancer Society charity shop in Waterford. Click the link to read her story in full.

In 2014, 17-year-old Sarah O’Neill began experiencing severe pain in her chest. Tests later revealed that she had cancer. Read her full story by clicking the link.

In October 2020, 21 year old Rebecca Duffy began experiencing wheeziness and fatigue, she put it down to her asthma and tiredness from starting a new job. She later found out that she had cancer. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Primary school pupil Jack Joyce has embarked on a challenge to walk 9,000 steps each day in March to raise funds for cancer research in honour of his late mum Audrey. Read his full story by clicking the link.

"When I woke up in the morning, I knew the lump was most definitely there. I went to the doctor that same day."

“I felt like the rug was pulled out from under me. I went into a blind panic. I kept saying to my husband, ‘tell him to stop telling me I have cancer’.

“There are some challenges to our work, such as hearing about unequal access to our health services, and the slow response of Government to reform health policy in areas such as tobacco, alcohol and sunbed use which could save lives."

"Biomarkers give us an indication of who will respond well to chemotherapy and those who won’t."

‘Lean on others during your journey, don’t try to do it solo’

‘My story is positive because of my reaction’

"You don’t forget about your cancer. I go to bed at night and wake up in the morning knowing I have cancer, but I try to put it aside and still have the craic.” Click the link to learn more about Sandra's breast cancer story.

“The supports they offer would have been really beneficial to me at the beginning of my cancer journey, but I’m still on that journey and I take great comfort knowing that these supports are going to be in place.” Click the link to learn more about Paul's oesophageal cancer story.

“The Irish Cancer Society Transport Service was there for me when I didn’t even know what it was.” Click the link to learn more about Patrick's leukaemia story.

It was during the CT that they happened, by accident basically, to spot something on my lower lung. Click the link to learn more about Janice's lung cancer story.

“I am an example of somebody who had their lung cancer detected early and lived to tell the tale.” Click the link to learn more about Damien's lung cancer story.

"If sharing my journey can help even one person feel less alone, if it can give someone else the courage to keep going, then it’s all worth it." Click the link to learn more about Fiona's breast cancer story.

“We need to get into the habit of checking our bodies regularly and if something doesn’t feel right, don’t delay, go and get checked out.” Click the link to learn more about Ciara's breast cancer story.

“When we check ourselves, we’re not just checking for a lump” Click the link to learn more about Amy's breast cancer story.

“If just one person reads my story and checks they are signed up for BowelScreen or does their test, that will be worth me sharing my experience.” Click the link to learn more about Tom's bowel cancer story.

"I had my five-year clear scan just this year and my consultant in Tallaght said to me, ‘in the nicest possible way, hopefully I never see you again’." Click the link to learn more about Tom's bowel cancer story.

“My age went against me. Now, here I am in my early 40s with incurable bowel cancer. That should never happen to anybody.” Click the link to learn more about Kerrie's bowel cancer story.

"With me, when I heard stage 4, I thought, ‘that's it, I'm gone’. But it's not the case at all. Talk to your caregiver, and they'll explain properly. They can reassure you that there is life after stage 4.” Click the link to learn more about Ann Marie's bowel cancer story.

“We should be shouting from the rooftops how important it is to protect your skin and how you can do it”. Click the link to read more.

“The more people who take part in clinical trials, the more new and innovative treatments we can eventually make available to more patients.” Read more about Roden's ski cancer story.

Marcia de Miranda Faulkner first noticed a lump on her neck in January 2021,and tests revealed she had breast and ovarian cancer. Read her full story by clicking the link.

When Sinead Osgood found a lump in her breast during the October bank holiday weekend in 2018, she made an appointment with her doctor. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Natasha Connaughton describes the way her cancer diagnosis came about as 'an unusual one'. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Agnes Horan shares her passion for working as a Night Nurse, providing end-of-life care to people in their homes. Click the link to read her story in full.

Irene Barr shares her passion for working as a Night Nurse, providing end-of-life care to people in their homes. Click the link to read her story in full.

25-year-old Tipperary woman Sorcha Holohan completed the Sheffield Half Marathon in September of this year to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society’s Night Nursing Service. Sorcha had her own personal experience with the Night Nursing service when her family was looking for end-of-life care for her mother Catherine, also known as Kate. Read Sorcha's full story by clicking the link.

Seamus Cotter says his cancer story began in 2016 following recurring instances of phlebitis which caused swelling of his arms and legs. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Eimear Cregg was a healthy 35-year-old primary school teacher who seldom ever had to take a sick day before an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis in 2018 changed the course of her life. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Peter Corcoran knew something was wrong when as a fit lad of 16 he was unable to complete a lap of the school pitch one day. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Train driver Ray Finnerty from Mayo first thought the stiffness he was feeling in his legs in late 2019 was from the amount of cycling he had been doing. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Long-distance runner Mary Cullen from Sligo was diagnosed with head and neck cancer afrter noticing an unusual deafness in her left ear. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Dr Grainne Sheill is an Irish Cancer Society funded researcher with the Discipline of Physiotherapy, Trinity College Dublin and a Senior Physiotherapist at St James’s Hospital.

Mother of two, Viola O'Donovan from Clonakilty in Co. Cork had always considered herself to be ‘breast aware’. The 41 year old had suffered from breast cysts for a number of years, so when she found a dent in her breast last Christmas, she thought little of it. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Cathy Lynch from Offaly was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Helena Duggan from Claremorris in Co. Mayo speaks about the incredible care her family received from the Irish Cancer Society Night Nursing service, when her mum, Olive died in September 2021. Read Helena's full story by clicking the link.

Noelle O’Donoghue McCaul from Malahide, Dublin, became an Irish Cancer Society Volunteer driver in 2021 after reading about the service in a local newsletter. Read her full story by clicking the link.

22-year-old Sinéad Breslin from Longford began experiencing unusual symptoms extreme fatigue, back pain, changes to her menstrual flow, feeling full and bloated after she ate and also a feeling of gas in her stomach, before she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Elizabeth Smith is sharing the story of her late beloved husband Jimmy, and she hopes that it will encourage people to visit their doctor if they have any worrying symptoms.

Galway mum and advanced paramedic Grace Slattery noticed a change in her breast density during Christmas time 2017.

'We never knew before that the Night Nursing Service was there, or how much Night Nurses do.'

Counsellor Anne-Claire Noat discusses her role and why she has chosen to work in the area of cancer support.

In May 2021, 24 year old Emmet Burns from Co. Dublin was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma - a cancer of the lymphatic system.

In March 2021 Collette Kavanagh from Riverston Abbey in Dublin noticed her nipple had become inverted.

In July 2020, thirty-one year old Bronwyn Carpenter began experiencing persistent severe headaches that would wake her during the night.

“It’s taught me that life’s too short, you never know when things might go wrong and there’s no point living in fear."

"If you get familiar with your own body then you will know straight away when something is wrong."

"Testicular cancer has become very treatable and curable"

It was a considerate act for a family member that first opened Kevin Lawlor's mind to volunteering on four wheels.

“My cancer was very manageable – but if I had discovered it four years later it would have been a very different story.”

Emma Higginson from Tralee, Co Kerry was due to move back to her life in London with her partner and son when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2021.

Mike Walsh is living proof that you can climb mountains even after a cancer diagnosis, but the county Waterford lecturer is keen to promote the message that even a small amount of physical activity can reap big rewards.

Wexford based Liam Galvin was diagnosed with a very rare cancer called Thymic Carcinoma in March 2021, aged 57.

“It’s been a journey I never imagined myself being on, going through two cancer diagnoses in three years, before the age of 40,”

In July 2013, forty-year-old Evelyn McAuliffe found a lump under her arm during a self-examination.

Christopher Moore from Dublin was diagnosed with FAP at 11 years of age.

Twenty-seven year old Oncology Nurse Marianne Walsh was going about her workday when she happened to feel a small lump just by her collarbone.

Sarah parted with her trademark dreads for the Irish Cancer Society Shave or Dye challenge as a tribute to her late father Eamon, who she lost in March.

The mum-of-two had been experiencing chronic fatigue and loss of appetite for about 12 months prior to her diagnosis, but she put that down to trauma and stress as herself and her children had spent two and a half years in Galway’s homeless services.

Breffni McCabe had heard all the ‘scare stories’ before his cancer treatment journey began, but the Carlingford local’s experience of care ended up being a lot more positive than what he was led to expect.

“Going in there and being told I can’t have kids made me heartbroken. But I’m still going to have kids, and I know that there are other options. Kids are part of my future, and I’ll just have to take a different route now.”

"One thing I would say to women is if you notice anything different at all about your breasts, do something about it."

"It doesn’t matter where you are or what you’re doing, you need to check your body, because the issue is not going to wait"

Cancer treatment presents huge physical challenges for patients, but often overlooked is the psychological distress it can bring.

Jonathan Molloy’s diagnosis of prostate cancer came out of the blue. The 45-year-old from Cavan town was in good health, and was not aware anything was amiss until routine blood tests at the GP revealed he had raised PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels.

When Michelle Moore found a lump in her breast in April 2016, she wasn’t initially concerned. She was 42 years old and generally healthy, and so she put her concerns to the back of her mind.

“I was watching it play out like an out of body experience. I was thinking, is this happening? Has the surgeon really said those words?”

"I have known I wanted to work in cancer research since I was a teenager."

“I think it is so important to question anything unusual you are feeling with your own body and not always just try to explain symptoms away.”

In May 2020, diplomat Sarah McGrath was recovering from surgery for a badly broken ankle. Normally resident in Dublin 8, she was recuperating at home in Clarecastle, Co Clare when she found a lump in her breast.

Advanced Nurse Practitioner Caitríona Duggan's project aims to help reduce a significant source of anxiety and discomfort for some patients during their treatment, using a readily-available solution

In 2019, Leona Smith noticed something unusual about a mole she had on her stomach.

Sharon Greaves is one of many people whose opportunity of receiving a prompt cancer diagnosis may have sadly slipped through the cracks during the pandemic. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Mary Walsh from Kildare had sadly already lost her mother Peggy, father Peter and her aunty Mary to cancer in the years before she received her own breast cancer diagnosis. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Mike Kelly doesn’t need to be told about his good fortune at having caught his own cancer early, after he tragically experienced the other side of the story when he lost his partner Barnes to leukaemia in 2006. Read his full story by clicking the link.

For all her years in nursing, Nikki Knight could never have been prepared for a whirlwind few months that included a shock breast cancer diagnosis and serious Covid illness in her family. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Liam Byrne's wife Sandra passed away in 2018 after having a reoccurrence of colon cancer. Her wish to pass away at home was fulfilled by the Irish Cancer Society Night Nurse service. Read Liam's full story by clicking the link.

Peter Hayes was diagnosed with prostate cancer after blood tests revealed he had high PSA levels. Read his full story by clicking the link.

In 2016, Felicity Kelly-Elliot experienced intense tiredness, sleeping for 15 hours and still waking up tired. Later that year, she became very ill and was admitted to hospital and her cancer was discovered. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Ger Kelly was diagnosed with bowel cancer after experiencing persistent pain in his side, lower back and ribcage, and had difficulties eating and lost weight. Read his full story by clicking the link.

In October 2022, Geraldine and Noel McGovern’s five-year-old daughter Rachel was diagnosed with a rare type of eye cancer called retinoblastoma. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Sarah Kidney's appendix cancer was discovered after she experienced severe abdominal pain, bloating and discomfort. She said: "I got an awful shock as I had never even heard of appendix cancer." Read her full story by clicking the link.

In February 2006, Dublin based Ann Claxton was experiencing what she believed was a bad kidney infection. After getting the cause of it checked out, she got diagnosed with kidney cancer. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Eddie McGuinness was diagnosed with stage three throat cancer after he experienced a persistent sore throat and a lump developed on his neck. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Sharon Walsh shares how the Irish Cancer Society's Night Nurses supported her dad, Liam, who had multiple myeloma, in his final days and how this spurred her on to fundraise. Read her full story by clicking the link.

In 2019, 21-year-old Stacey Braddish was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma after experiencing breathlessness and a high heart rate. Read her full story by clicking the link.

“The swelling was so slight I thought I must be imagining it. I could only feel it when I lay on my side in a certain way.

Clare Breen shares her story of how cancer treatment caused her to think ahead about future family options. Read her full story by clicking the link.

"As a mum, you instantly think of your children, those who are dependent on you.”

Aisling Reilly was diagnosed with breast cancer at 32-years-old, after finding a lump. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Claire Brangan was 39-years-old with two children under the age of 4 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Catriona Kavanagh was diagnosed with HER2+ Oestrogen breast cancer in May 2019, aged 38., after finding a lump. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Catríona Kennedy was diagnosed with stage three triple negative breast cancer in June 2018, one month after her 32nd birthday, after finding a lump. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Shampa Lahiri was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Rachael-Ann McCarney was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer just one month before her 28th birthday. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Denise Kennerney was diagnosed with stage 3 invasive ductal breast cancer in March 2020, aged 39, after she found a lump on her breast. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Geraldine Dunphy was diagnosed with HER2 breast cancer in September 2018, when she discovered a lump one day after her 37th birthday. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Suzanne Byrne was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2023, after experiencing bleeding after sex, tiredness, pain in her pelvis and bloating. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Marguerite Sloane was diagnosed with breast cancer after finding an "absolutely tiny" lump in her breast in 2020, just two weeks after her 50th birthday. Read her full story by clicking the link.

Irish Cancer Society calls on Government for financial action

In November 2022, after a run-of-the-mill fall by her 3-year-old son, Abigail became worried when she noticed veins and bruising around his right upper leg.

European Cancer Organisation Launches Ireland Country Report

From July 2021, Deirdre Fleming, then just 41 years old, noticed she was going to the toilet more often. “I went to my GP, and they suspected irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Between November that year and the following January/February, the weight fell off me and I was really concerned. I changed GP and my new doctor pushed me forward for an urgent colonoscopy.”

In 2014, 39-year-old Jacqui Tangney from Killarney was taking a shower and decided to do a breast exam. This was not something Jacqui normally did, but during this check, she happened to notice a small lump on her left breast.

The Ireland Women’s National Team is calling on fans to go all in against cancer this Daffodil Day, Friday 22nd March.

People involved in ground-breaking research projects around the country were honoured at the Irish Cancer Society Research Awards on Friday, February 23rd at Regent House, Trinity College Dublin.

In July 2021, thirty-six year old Áine Martin woke in the early morning at 5am and found her hand drawn to a lump on her right breast “For some strange reason my hand went straight there.

“Always follow your instincts. My gut was telling me that something wasn’t right in my body. Sometimes you have to push for further testing, you know your own body best”

Olivia recalls learning about her breast cancer diagnosis “I was absolutely heartbroken. When going for those tests, you know it is a possibility, but you don’t think it is going to happen to you.” She says.

SMALL BIT ABOUT THE PR

“I am an example of somebody who had their lung cancer detected early and lived to tell the tale.”

"On 8 November 2022, we went to the hospital and by 6 pm, we found out he had cancer." Read more of Cadoc's story by clicking the link.

In late January of this year, Hugh O’Rourke was diagnosed with prostate cancer. As the 81-year-old from Carlow explains, there were earlier indications of his eventual diagnosis. Read his full story by clicking the link.

Portlaoise-based Kriszti Nemeth was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023. Click the link to read her story.

In August 2023, Fionnuala Rabbitt, aged 52, went for her BreastCheck appointment in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. Read her story by clicking the link.

In July 2023, Mariana, who moved to Dublin eight years ago from Mexico, noticed a lump on her breast when she got out of the shower. Read Mariana's story by clicking the link.

"At the end of 2022, I found a spot on my left breast and was sent for a triple assessment, which happened in February." Read the Walsh Family's story by clicking the link.

In 2014, 39-year-old Jacqui Tangney from Killarney was taking a shower and decided to do a breast exam. To learn more, read her story by clicking the link.

“I just want people to hear my story and become more aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer and to not be afraid to talk about your poo.” Click the link to read more about Deirdre's story.

'It was playing on my mind. It was the beginning of July and after checking my breasts purely by chance after reading this article, I found a lump.” Click the link to read more.

"It was a big commitment of course, but so worth it. I was still able to go to school, work and play football. I really tried to live life relatively normally. When I was 23, my team told me I was in complete remission." Read more Ryan's story.

After noticing a lump in her breast, Debbie Murphy, a 48-year-old palliative care nurse manager of 24 years, monitored it for a two-week period to see if it went away. Click the link to read more.

After a biopsy, Letitia received her formal diagnosis of Stage 2 Primary Mediastinal Large B Cell Lymphoma. “I was straight in for chemotherapy almost immediately." Read her full story by clicking the link.

“I will not stop providing support to people affected by cancer” Click the link to read more about Linda's work at our Daffodil Centres.

“Here I was going to get results for what I thought was routine back pain and within hours I was told that I have lung cancer with a secondary lesion in my spine." Click the link to read about Tracy's story.

In 2017, then aged 57, Paul Vickers, a truck driver and father of six, was experiencing stomach problems and he later began to notice blood in his poo.

“It could have been a lot worse for me and I’m so grateful to be able to tell my story to raise awareness of bowel cancer” Click the link to read more about Paul's story.

Mary Maybury O'Connor, registered nurse and midwife, was diagnosed with tonsillar cancer in October 2016. Click the link to read more about Mary's story.

Aged just 31, Thamires Lima, a Brazilian student living in Dublin, noticed a change in the appearance of her breast skin. Click the link to learn more

Patrice Morrissey was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer & this is her story. Learn more by clicking the link

Deirdre O'Raw was diagnosed with ovarian cancer."I had symptoms in January or February 2020, but it wasn’t until July when I received my diagnosis." To read more, click the link.

“In hindsight, I had a lot of the classic symptoms that I now know, but at the time, wasn’t looking out for” click the link to read more about Bridget's story.

In 2021, Pauline Russell from Lusk, Co Dublin went for a routine eye exam after having difficulties when looking at her work computer. Click the link to read more about Pauline's story.

When I received my diagnosis, I actually felt I was able to accept it relatively quickly. My work focused on medicines research & development," Read more about Siobhan's metastatic cancer story.

In her role as a Cancer Nurse on the Irish Cancer Society’s Support Line, every day Edel Brangan speaks to people affected by cancer. Click the link to read more about Edel's work.

After his 40th birthday, in early July 2022, Adam Thompson decided to go and get a health check-up. “I just wanted a basic check-up, make sure everything was in order." Click the link to read more.

38-year-old Kim Clack-Whelan from Ballybrack Dublin remembers the moment she knew something was wrong in her body, click the link to read more about Kim's story.

58-year-old Joe Collins began experiencing extremely bad back pain in 2017 “I had issues with my back before, but this time the pain was excruciating. Click the link to read more.

Susan Lanigan lives in Cobh with her family. A few weeks before Christmas 2022, she discovered a lump on her breast, and in January 2023 she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

24-year-old Lauren Barrett from Tralee describes her experience with cancer as ‘a little complicated’. Click the link to read more.

"I won’t stop using my voice to spread the message that lung cancer and clinical trials is an area of priority for investment, focus and innovation." Hear from Prof. Naidoo on her ground-breaking research

Breast cancer survivor Orla Brennan says patient education key in overcoming ‘distressing’ complication of cancer treatment Pilot project is the only such hospital service outside of Dublin.

62-year old Jacinta Ahern Boyle from County Cavan was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 1998. Read her full story via the link.

“Early detection is key. If something is abnormal for you, just go to the GP and get it checked out, even if it’s scary." Read Lisa's breast cancer story via the link.

"The cancer had spread to my lymph nodes, but I would need to have a CT scan to see if it had also spread to my other organs." Read Lynn's story via the link.

I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, which is oestrogen-receptive and HER2+. Thankfully, it hasn’t spread to my lymph nodes.” Read more of Edel's story by clicking the link.

"My doctor noticed I had a goitre or swelling on my thyroid. I had been experiencing symptoms of tiredness and fatigue, but we didn’t know what the cause was." Read Mairead's story by clicking the link.

When the day came, my husband came with me for my results. I was diagnosed with HER+ breast cancer. It was stage one, so thankfully it was caught early. Read Evelyn's full story via the link.

Joseph’s symptoms began as a mild pain in his back, which progressively got worse, with pain moving to his chest. “When they told me they had discovered a type of cancer, I couldn’t believe it. Read his full story via the link.

It was during a spot of virtual Zumba in her living room that Martina Balfe from Clonee in Dublin began noticing a pain in her chest. She was later diagnosed with breast cancer. Read her full story here.

In March 2020, 33-year-old Anu Varghese's dreams of a new life were put on hold as she received a breast cancer diagnosis just months after moving to Ireland. Click here to read her full story.

In 2017, Margaret was told her breast cancer had spread to her sternum and spine. Her metastatic diagnosis followed her previous breast cancer experience in 2004. Read her full story here.

With lobular breast cancer in both breasts, Mags had a decision to make about her treatment. “Throughout my cancer experience, I felt very much in control of what we did next." Read Mags' full story here.

In March 2020, following an examination, mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy, Catherine received the devastating news that she had triple negative breast cancer. Read her full story here.

In the summer of 2022, then 36-year-old Tara Doonan from Co. Cavan was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, a type of breast cancer. Read her full story by clicking here.

Deirdre Bonass (56) from Wexford is one of 13,000 people diagnosed with skin cancer in Ireland every year. She is currently in recovery from treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) skin cancer and wants to encourage anyone heading on holidays or out in the Irish sun to follow the Sun Smart Code.

"We know that, unfortunately, half of all smokers will die from smoking-related diseases, with cancer being the most common cause of death. Sadly, over 4,500 people die from smoking-related harm in Ireland every year alone." Read our article in full by clicking the link.

Vanessa Clarke shares her story of a diagnosis of stage 3 nodular melanoma aged 26. Click the link to read more.

“Everything moved so quickly. The tests and the scans and then you’re left waiting for the results. A couple of days later, I got the call to say that I had cancer.” Click the link to read more.

“It concerned me so on the Monday morning, I went straight to the GP. I was referred on for a triple assessment. I could tell from the reactions of everyone at appointment, that it wasn’t good news. Click the link to read more.

“I had been feeling tired for a while but otherwise nothing else too unusual. My mum had breast cancer so I did check myself regularly enough, usually in the shower.” click the link to read Sharon's story.

Phelim Warren had celebrated his 57th birthday six days before he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in September 2023. Read his full story by clicking the link.

In 2016, 41-year-old Natalie Cambridge from Cork discovered a lump in her breast “Two years previously, my husband was diagnosed with bowel cancer." Read more of her story by clicking the link.

At the end of 2022, 54-year-old Mum-of-four and grandmother-of- five, Suzanne Byrne from Greystones was beginning to go through the menopause when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Read her story by clicking the link.

"The cancer was present in my front temporal lobe and right temporal lobe. Within 48 hours, I started aggressive chemotherapy. The treatment was intensive, but without it, my chances weren’t good." Read James' story by clicking the link.

In July 2021, thirty-six-year-old Áine Martin woke in the early morning at 5am and found her hand drawn to a lump on her right breast. Read her full story by clicking the link.

"I was only 47 at the time and felt I wouldn’t be affected by lung cancer as I was a non-smoker. They needed to take a biopsy and remove the tumour, they also wanted to check my lymph nodes to see if the cancer had spread." Read Samatha's full story by clicking the link.

Olivia recalls learning about her breast cancer diagnosis: “I was absolutely heartbroken. When going for those tests, you know it is a possibility, but you don’t think it is going to happen to you.” Read her full story by clicking the link.

“I felt a jolt of fear go through my body. I showed my husband and sister-in-law and they pushed me to go to my GP." Read Sandra's story by clicking the link.

"As a single mother to six children, I know I have used sun cream sparingly in the past because you’re trying to stretch out how long a bottle lasts. Click the link to read more.

‘With a newborn to deal with, my mind was spinning.’ Read Simon's prostate cancer story via the link.

"As well as research funding, the Irish Cancer Society have supported me by providing access to experts in patient and public involvement and scientific communication, as well as opportunities to network with other researchers" Click the link to read more.

“It was through a routine mammogram with BreastCheck and I had no symptoms at all; it was a complete surprise” Click the link to read more.

"My only regret is that I didn’t reach out to the supports sooner. I would also really encourage people to become more aware of the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer ” Click the link to read more.

"They did a lot of investigations into my cough, and I was told that I needed a biopsy" click the link to read more.

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