Cork Teacher Shares Breast Cancer Journey After Shock Diagnosis

A young woman from Cork, Niamh O’Donoghue, has opened up about her unexpected battle with breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with at the age of 29. While living and working as a teacher in the UAE, Niamh discovered a lump in her breast that led to a life-altering diagnosis.

Despite feeling “perfect” at the time, Niamh’s journey began when she noticed a lump while applying moisturiser. Initially, she did not think much of it, believing self-examination to be something relevant only for older women. “I wasn’t checking myself at all, because I thought that was something for down the line when I got a bit older. It never really crossed my mind,” she recalled in an interview.

From Diagnosis to Treatment

After seeking medical advice in Abu Dhabi, doctors reassured her that lumps are often benign. However, further tests revealed a more serious situation. Upon returning to Ireland for the summer, Niamh received the heartbreaking news that the lump was cancerous. She was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which required immediate treatment.

“Everything was hugely changed after that call,” Niamh said. She decided to undergo treatment in Ireland, surrounded by family and friends. Her treatment plan included surgery, followed by 16 weeks of chemotherapy, and additional surgery. Thankfully, she has been cancer-free since.

Advocating for Awareness

Motivated by her experience, Niamh has become a Patient Supporter for this year’s Breast Cancer Ireland Very Pink Run, taking place at MTU in Cork on September 6, 2025. She aims to raise awareness about breast cancer in younger women, as many may mistakenly believe it primarily affects older individuals. In fact, 23% of women diagnosed with breast cancer fall between the ages of 20 and 50.

“Do the checks,” she urged. “It’s better to do them, and if you do find something, don’t dismiss it just because of your age, or your fitness, or how you’re feeling overall.”

Niamh emphasized the importance of being proactive about health. “Even when I found that lump, I was feeling perfect. Everything on the outside was fine, but I didn’t know what was going on inside my body,” she said. She encourages anyone who suspects something is wrong to seek further medical attention, regardless of age.

The Very Pink Run is part of a larger initiative by Breast Cancer Ireland to raise funds for critical research and education. The event, supported by Very, Ireland’s leading online retailer, will feature large-scale live events across Dublin, Cork, and Kilkenny from September 6 to 14, 2025. Niamh highlighted the vital role these fundraising efforts play, stating, “Without the research that Breast Cancer Ireland does and the awareness they raise, people like me may not be alive.”

Registration for the event is available at www.verypinkrun.ie, and participants are encouraged to join in the fight against breast cancer. Niamh’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and the unwavering impact of community support in the face of adversity.