martina, Ireland

How did it start?

I had a pain under my arm in March 2021 and went to the doctor as I thought I had a pulled muscle . He sent me for a mammogram and an ultrasound . 2 weeks later - the diagnoses, triple negative breast cancer , in the lymph nodes, 6.5cm, aggressive, hard to treat. I was 48 years old .

What was the biggest challenge(s) in your experience with cancer?

Emotionally after my diagnosis I went to pieces . I worried about my children and my husband . I grieved for the life I loved before cancer . Physically I was fine during chemo , surgery , and radiation . Nearly 5 years on, I suffer with fatigue and anxiety- in case it comes back

What helped you most?

My husband, children, sister and friends. I did Councelling and found it helpful. I chatted to other women online and found they understood how I was feeling .

What was your experience of the healthcare system?

The healthcare system was fantastic while I was getting treatment . I have no evidence of disease since Oct 2021 and since then I’ve had to chase my regular appointments

What is your message of hope or words of advice?

For people going through it - you will find strength you never knew you had . For the healthcare system - when treatment is over , people aren’t magically “cured” . They will always be cancer patients with physical and emotional effects that should be taken seriously

Show support