Mayo cancer survivor speaks ahead of Daffodil Day

This coming Friday, March 20, is the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day. Daffodil Day is the Irish Cancer Society’s flagship fundraiser to support cancer patients and their families.

Mayo woman, Kay Sweeney, is a cancer survivor who was diagnosed in June 2024. The Ballycroy native was diagnosed with lung cancer after taking part in an NHS trial, where she had a multi-cancer early detection blood test. 

Ahead of starting immunotherapy and chemotherapy in August 2024, Kay decided to go on a 30-mile bike ride and a 10-mile hike as she still felt fit and healthy. She started her treatment just as her husband, John, was finishing his treatment for prostate cancer. He is now on a hormone drug and is doing well.

“I started my treatment in August 2024 and finished it in early November. On the 25th of November, I had surgery to remove a mass – they removed three-quarters of my left lung. The surgeon said that there was no cancer there, that the chemotherapy had killed it off,” she said.

“I think it’s important for people to know cancer isn’t always bad. There can be good outcomes too, if it’s caught early,” she added. 

Kay is now encouraging people across Mayo to support Daffodil Day: “Every euro raised on Daffodil Day is crucial and makes a real lasting difference, fuelling life-changing cancer research and vital support services,” she said.

“I would encourage everyone to please get out there on Daffodil Day, March 20, and show your support for those affected by cancer in your local community,” she added.

Donations provided to the Irish Cancer Society have provided Mayo with over 420 free lifts to Mayo-based cancer patients, 310 free counselling sessions, 310 nights free Night Nursing, and 460 conversations with people from Mayo on a support line.

Irish Cancer Society Acting CEO Edel Shovlin said: “Cancer doesn’t wait - and neither can we. This year, thousands of people in Ireland will hear the words, ‘You have cancer’. Behind every diagnosis is a person, a family, a future suddenly filled with uncertainty. But this Daffodil Day, there is also determination, compassion and groundbreaking research driving real progress.

“Daffodil Day 2026 is about turning solidarity into action. The funds raised don’t just support vital, life-changing cancer research - they provide immediate, practical help for people facing cancer right now. From free counselling and transport to treatment, to Night Nursing care that allows someone to spend precious time at home, your support makes an extraordinary difference," she added. 

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