Woman’s Quick Action After Shock Diagnosis Leads to Life-Saving Treatment

When Rachel Mullen leaned over in bed to nudge her husband Paul and stop his snoring, she unknowingly initiated a series of events that would ultimately lead to her life being saved. Last year, the mother of three discovered a lump in her breast during this seemingly mundane moment, prompting a medical journey that revealed a breast cancer diagnosis.

Initially dismissing the lump as unimportant, the resident of Meath sought medical advice on her own, unaware of the life-altering news that awaited her. “Whatever way I moved, I found a lump, so I went to the GP who sent me to the BreastCheck Clinic where, after tests, I was told it looked like cancer,” Rachel recounted. The reality of her diagnosis hit her hard. “I don’t remember the walk from the Mater Hospital because I couldn’t believe I had missed all the red flags.”

Following an anxious two-week waiting period, Rachel learned she had triple negative breast cancer with a two-inch tumor detected in her breast. This type of cancer is known for its aggressive nature and lack of targeted treatment options. Consequently, she required a bone density scan to determine if the cancer had spread.

Desperate for answers, Rachel urged the medical team to expedite her results. She underwent further testing at Crumlin Children’s Hospital, where she was struck by her role as the oldest patient in the waiting room. “I remember other parents looking at me when my name was called and wondering what I was doing there,” she said.

Chemotherapy soon became a part of Rachel’s treatment plan. However, a severe reaction to the medication led to a three-week hospital stay and a change in her treatment regimen. Fortunately, this new approach allowed her to retain her hair for eleven weeks before it ultimately began to fall out. “I grieved every day for my hair,” she shared. The financial burden of a wig was significant; she paid €1,900, with her health insurance covering part of the cost.

Rachel expressed concern about the lack of support available for cancer patients in Ireland, particularly for those without health insurance. “If you have no insurance, you are really left behind in this country,” she stated. She emphasized the importance of early detection and increased awareness, noting that younger individuals are frequently diagnosed with various types of cancer.

In addition to her diagnosis, Rachel learned she carries the Brca2 gene, which increases the risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Although she was advised to consider a preventative double mastectomy, Rachel opted not to undergo this procedure. She also decided against radiotherapy after completing her chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment. Instead, she underwent a lumpectomy and remains on regular surveillance, including annual mammograms and MRIs.

Rachel’s experience navigating her diagnosis and treatment highlighted a gap in local resources for cancer support. “When you’re on treatment, the last thing you want is to travel to Dublin for counselling or group meetings due to exhaustion,” she noted. The emotional toll of cancer can be isolating, and Rachel recognized the need for community support during this challenging time.

Her three children, Seán (17), Ellie (13), and Jamie (8), served as her motivation throughout her ordeal. “I needed to show them that I am strong,” she explained. Rachel recalled a moment when Jamie encouraged her to be brave during her treatment, saying, “Mammy put your big girl pants on!”

With a desire to foster community among cancer patients, Rachel has organized a meet-up scheduled for August 19, 2023, aimed at providing support and resources for those affected by cancer. She is also planning a follow-up exercise and health workshop for cancer survivors. “There is no after-care to cancer; you are left to swim yourself and mental health can suffer,” she said, emphasizing the importance of mutual support.

Rachel invites anyone interested in participating or offering support to contact her at [email protected]. Her journey underscores the critical need for early detection, comprehensive care, and community support for cancer patients.