Cork Woman Triumphs Over Oesophageal Cancer After Painful Struggle

Linda O’Riordan McCarthy, a mother of two from Mayfield, Cork, faced a life-altering diagnosis of oesophageal cancer at the age of 48 in March 2022. The journey began in September 2021 when she first experienced difficulty swallowing, a symptom that would lead to a series of alarming health issues.

Initially, O’Riordan McCarthy found herself struggling with the simple act of eating. “If I were eating a bread roll or something like that, it would be hurting me. I also had persistent heartburn,” she recalled. As the months progressed, her condition worsened, making it increasingly difficult to consume certain foods. By Christmas 2021, she was unable to eat bread or meat, leading to significant weight loss and distress.

Understanding Oesophageal Cancer Symptoms

The oesophagus, or food pipe, connects the throat to the stomach and plays a crucial role in digestion. According to Sarah Egan, a cancer awareness nurse with the Irish Cancer Society, “Oesophageal cancer is when abnormal cells in the food pipe start to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way.” Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, persistent heartburn, pain in the chest, and changes in voice. Egan emphasized the importance of consulting a general practitioner for any unusual or persistent symptoms lasting more than three weeks.

O’Riordan McCarthy’s journey to diagnosis involved multiple GP visits and an ultrasound, which did not indicate any clear issues. Determined to find answers, she requested a referral to a specialist. On March 10, 2022, she met with a consultant who ordered an endoscopy, during which cells were biopsied.

Just ten days later, the consultant delivered the devastating news. “He said it was very serious. I thought, ‘This is it, I’m gone,’” she recounted. Following this, a PET scan confirmed the location of the cancer, prompting a referral to surgeon Thomas Murphy at the Mercy Hospital.

A Challenging Road to Recovery

As her treatment progressed, O’Riordan McCarthy faced numerous challenges, including the insertion of a feeding tube to ensure she received adequate nutrition. “By the first of July, I was unable to swallow at all. I couldn’t even drink water,” she explained. Fortunately, after a few weeks of treatment, she experienced some relief as the tumor shrank, allowing her to proceed with surgery.

On August 31, 2022, O’Riordan McCarthy underwent an oesophagectomy, a procedure that involved removing her oesophagus and part of her stomach. Through this keyhole surgery, her stomach was repositioned and reattached to form a new food pipe. Throughout this arduous process, she relied heavily on her family for support. “My two kids and my partner were amazing. My mom, sister, and brother-in-law were all there for me, too,” she noted.

Despite her resilience, O’Riordan McCarthy faced emotional challenges during her recovery. “I had my own cries. I had my funeral songs picked out; I wasn’t under any illusion that it could have gone the other way,” she said. Looking forward became essential for her well-being. “That’s why I’m always booking holidays or weekends away,” she added, reflecting her desire to embrace life.

Returning to work in March 2023 played a significant role in restoring her routine. O’Riordan McCarthy also connected with others on similar journeys, including a young man she met during treatment, who inspired her positivity despite his own battle.

Post-surgery, she has worked closely with a dietitian to adjust to a new way of eating. “I’m never going to be 100%, but what I have now is my ‘new normal’,” she remarked. Adapting her diet has been crucial, as she can no longer eat certain foods and must consume smaller portions, primarily soft or mashed items.

Now cancer-free, O’Riordan McCarthy continues to face the challenge of managing her health. “It’s all about trying to manage the symptoms and keeping myself well. I also have regular screenings to make sure I’m fine,” she stated. Although she acknowledges ongoing fears, her focus remains on positivity and enjoying life.

In Ireland, approximately 520 cases of oesophageal cancer are diagnosed each year, with a higher prevalence among men and an average age of diagnosis at 71. Recent research from the Oesophageal Cancer Fund highlighted a concerning gap in public knowledge, revealing that nearly 70% of adults are not confident in recognizing early warning signs of this serious illness.

O’Riordan McCarthy’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and early detection in the fight against cancer.