Mayo breast cancer survivor backs Big Pink Breakfast fundraiser

Every year, around 3,600 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland. Mayo Breast Cancer survivor Fiona Mannion is encouraging the public to host a Big Pink Breakfast to help fund vital breast cancer support services.

After a routine mammogram, the 56-year-old Castlebar woman was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2020, during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Detailing her experience, Fiona said: “On March 23, 2020, as the whole world was focused on Covid, I got a call from a surgeon in the hospital to say I had breast cancer. He said I had two options: to go on hormone suppressants until this ‘pandemic thing was over’ or to come to Galway the next morning for surgery."

Fiona says she felt she had no time to digest the news she had just received; "I decided to go ahead with the surgery, and thankfully, everything went smoothly. My tumour was sent away for testing, and I later received results from the Oncotype test. My surgeon told me I had scored 20 on the test and therefore would not require chemo. This was a huge relief.”

Following her surgery, Fiona had radiotherapy. She finished her radiation treatment at the end of June 2020 with the support of family and friends. Since finishing hormone therapy last May, Fiona is now doing well. 

Speaking on the Big Pink Breakfast campaign, Fiona says she encourages supporting the campaign to help people like her who have been affected by breast cancer: “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.”She added. 

Mary O’Kelly, a cancer nurse with the Irish Cancer Society, emphasises the importance of self-examination 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, monthly. 

“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.” She added.

The Irish Cancer Society nurse says that women should not feel embarrassed or uncomfortable attending their GP with breast issues.

"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.” 

Funds raised by hosting a Big Pink Breakfast will go directly to supporting breast cancer support services, transport to treatment, Night Nursing, and research projects. To learn more or get involved, visit cancer.ie/pink  

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