Battle with cancer has a happy ending

A SOUTHSIDE
woman who survived cancer has penned an inspirational self-help book that draws
on the positive experiences she shared during her battle to overcome the
disease.

Cathy McCarthy
(53), from Stillorgan, was diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago. She
subsequently wrote a book to highlight a number of ways that women can draw on
their strength and find enlightenment at their darkest moments.

Cathy said she
was grateful to have lived through her cancer ordeal and hopes the book
entitled, ‘Not the year you had planned – a positive self-help book for a
cancer journey,’ inspires women across the country.

“I always try to
do things rather than sit at home and wallow in self pity,

? she explained.

“I
had some terrible days when I was in a lot of pain, but I did a lot of things
to keep my spirits high.

“The book
encourages people to focus on the simple things in their lives and remember
that tomorrow is another day. We all need something to look forward to, and
this is especially important for people with cancer.

?

Cathy underwent
six treatments in total after her cancer diagnosis.

“After each
treatment I would treat myself to something nice.

“It didn’t have
to be something expensive, just something positive that would lift the spirit.

?

Cathy said the
support of her friends and family were vital to her wellbeing.

“I couldn’t have
done it without the support of my husband and children, as well as my friends,

?
she reflected.

“It is very important to have a good support network at all
times.

?

Cathy said she
would recommend that people who are enduring cancer should seek some form of
counselling during treatment.

“I received
counselling and it was wonderful,

? she enthused.

“I would recommend it for
anybody suffering with cancer. It can be free so why not go for it?

“I hope people
enjoy this book,

? she added.

“It is humorous, light-hearted and provides
moments of laughter.

“After all, a
sense of humour is an essential part of any survival kit.

?

Cathy’s book was
sponsored by Trulife, which has dedicated itself to improving life for women
who undergo breast surgery.

Royalties from
the book will go to the recently established Tallaght Cancer Support Group and
to the Sligo Cancer Support Centre.

The book is
priced

?¬12.99 and is available from bookshops nationwide.