Dublin Woman Shares Breast Cancer Journey and Early Diagnosis

A Dublin woman’s early diagnosis of breast cancer at the age of 34 has highlighted the importance of self-examination and regular health checks. Alythea Synnott, whose family has a history of breast cancer, sought a private health check after the passing of her aunt in March 2008. Although she had no apparent symptoms at the time, she wanted peace of mind.

Alythea, from Donnybrook, scheduled her appointment for June 2008, expressing her fears to the attending doctor. During the consultation, the doctor demonstrated how to conduct a breast self-exam and discovered a small, mobile lump. Although initially thought to be benign, further examinations revealed a more serious condition. Following a mammogram, Alythea underwent a biopsy, which confirmed a diagnosis of Stage 3C breast cancer on June 9, 2008.

Reflecting on her diagnosis, Alythea stated, “I was told the lumps in my arm and breast were cancerous; I would have surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.” Despite the shock, she approached her treatment with a practical mindset, focusing on the necessary steps ahead. “I was very much like, ‘what do we need to do?’” she recalled.

The rapid progression of her treatment was overwhelming. Within two weeks of her diagnosis, Alythea underwent her first operation, a lumpectomy. Following this, she was informed she would need a full mastectomy and reconstruction. During this time, she had 27 lymph nodes removed, with 24 testing positive for cancer, a particularly alarming statistic.

Alythea experienced significant emotional turmoil during this period. “You have the fear you’re knocking on death’s door,” she said. Access to counselling through the Irish Cancer Society provided essential support. “I was able to offload that fear and put it into a more positive perspective,” she added.

Chemotherapy presented another challenge, yet Alythea reframed her experience. “I used to imagine when I was getting chemo that I was being injected with the liquid of love,” she explained. She underwent chemotherapy for six months, followed by 38 sessions of radiation therapy, including six targeted treatments using a custom mould of her breast.

At the time of her diagnosis, Alythea was newly married and eager to start a family. However, her treatment induced chemical menopause, and later, she began taking Tamoxifen, which also had menopausal side effects. After eight years, she sought to stop the medication, hoping to conceive. Unfortunately, she ultimately entered early menopause by age 44.

Despite these challenges, Alythea remains grateful for her life. “I wasn’t lucky enough to have a family, but at least I have my life,” she said. She emphasizes the importance of breast self-examinations and consulting a healthcare professional about any changes. Alythea advises individuals to watch for lumps, skin texture changes, and alterations in nipple appearance.

“Be vigilant, check them every month. Go to your GP, even if you think it’s silly,” she urged. For those newly diagnosed, her message is one of hope: “You will get through this. That was my driving force. I wanted to live; I had to live.”

Seventeen years after her diagnosis, Alythea continues to thrive. She receives annual mammograms and recently had a clear CT scan. “I wasn’t meant to be here, but I am. I am more grateful and present,” she shared. Now 51, she cherishes her birthdays, embracing each year as a gift. “It’s another year I am here,” she concluded.

Alythea Synnott’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring others to prioritize their health and well-being.