Dublin breast cancer survivor calls on the public to support the Irish Cancer Society’s Big Pink Breakfast campaign

Breast cancer survivor Alythea Synnott from Donnybrook is supporting the Irish Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign and encouraging the public to host a Big Pink Breakfast to help fund vital breast cancer support services and life-changing breast cancer research projects

Every year, around 3,600 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland.

Alythea was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 at age 34 and was initially given a poor prognosis.

Her cancer was discovered after one of Alythea’s aunts passed away from the disease, which motivated Alythea to go for a private health check where a lump was found.

“Because a few of my aunties had breast cancer before, I felt like I was prepared. I don’t remember feeling shocked when I got my diagnosis, I just felt that the room I was in went still and everything became very slow,” Alythea said

Alythea’s underwent a full mastectomy, reconstruction surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Her treatment was a successful, and all have scans have come back clear in the years since she finished treatment.

Alythea adds: “My prognosis wasn’t good when I was diagnosed. My cancer was very advanced, it was stage 3C. But I’m still here 17 years later – it’s so important to always have hope.”

She is sharing her story to encourage people to support the Big Pink Breakfast campaign to help people like her who have been affected by breast cancer.

Alythea says: “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. You can sign up at cancer.ie/pink”

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.

“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”

This October the Irish Cancer Society is encouraging people to host a Big Pink Breakfast 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.

To learn more or get involved, please visit: cancer.ie/pink