Women’s Mini-Marathon for the Irish Cancer Society & Mum
I am running the women’s mini-marathon this year in honour of the Irish Cancer Society and all of the amazing work they do for people all around the country facing the scary reality of fighting cancer.
In August 2022 my mum was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer just two months before her 60th birthday. Immediately she began gruelling chemotherapy and began prepping for what her surgeon would later call mega-surgery. In the early months she overcame sepsis, losing her hair and intense pain from the chemo, all while maintaining an extremely positive attitude. Even naming some of her tumours.
She faced this so-called mega-surgery in November and began another 3 months of chemo almost immediately after. In the following February 23’ mum got the amazing news that her cancer markers were down and her CT scans looked good. We were over the moon and had a belated 60th birthday party to celebrate.
Unfortunately mums 3 month follow up scans were not fully clear and by her 6 month follow up it was clear the cancer had returned and she would have to begin treatment again. After another 4 months and 6 rounds of chemo we got the news that the treatment was successful, right before Christmas.
Since then, mum is doing great. She continues to get maintenance treatment every three weeks and has not had to name any more tumours.
The Irish Cancer Society funds life saving research and provides supports to people affected by cancer and their families. They provided a huge support to us especially in mums second cycle of chemo, by linking mum with volunteers to drive to her chemo appointments in Dublin.
Finally, as well as raising money for the Irish Cancer Society, we really hope to raise awareness about Ovarian Cancer. Ovarian cancer is very difficult to detect. Symptoms can be vague and non-specific, which can lead to delayed diagnosis.
Mum attended her GP multiple times in the 6-12 months before she was diagnosed, each time with worsening symptoms. She was repeatedly reassured that it was simply Irritable Bowel Syndrome or linked to the menopause, despite having symptoms of advanced stage cancer. It was only when we begged for bloods to be taken and brought her to A&E where she was finally taken seriously.
If you or anyone you know is having any unusual symptoms please get properly checked out <3
The following websites provide information, support and advice about ovarian cancer and the Irish Cancer Society.
Irish Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information-and-support/cancer-types/ovarian-cancer/symptoms-and-diagnosis-of-ovarian-cancer
Ovarian Cancer UK: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/ovarian-cancer
Thank you for you for making a difference
Organizer
Ellen McCormack
Organizer
Irish Cancer Society
Beneficiary