North West Breast Cancer Ball Raises Funds and Awareness for Vital Care

The North West Breast Cancer Charity Ball, held on March 15, 2025, at the Silver Tassie Hotel in Donegal, successfully united over 350 attendees for an evening dedicated to fundraising and raising awareness about breast cancer. This annual event, which has grown significantly since its inception nearly 16 years ago, has welcomed almost 5,000 guests during its history.

The evening featured special guest and former professional footballer Shay Given, who shared poignant insights regarding his family’s experiences with cancer. Given, a native of Lifford, reflected on the profound personal losses he faced, including the death of his mother from cancer when he was just four years old and his brother Kieran in 2023. He expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the staff at the Breast Centre North West in Letterkenny University Hospital, where his stepmother, Margaret, received treatment.

“What they do, and I don’t know how they do it, is so special,” Given remarked, emphasizing the critical role of healthcare professionals in battling cancer. He urged attendees to prioritize their health and seek early diagnoses, stating, “If you are worried about anything, please go and get checked; you can save your own life and it means so much to everybody else.”

Advancements in Cancer Care

The Breast Centre North West has made significant strides in cancer treatment and detection since its establishment. According to Mr Michael Sugrue, a Consultant Breast and General Surgeon, the centre has managed over 50,000 clinic attendances and treated more than 1,500 cancer patients since 2008. In 2025, the unit is expected to see around 3,600 patients, a notable increase from previous years.

Detection rates for cancer have risen by 41% since 2016, with the Breast Centre boasting the lowest excision rate in Ireland. This achievement indicates a higher clearance rate for breast cancer cases nationwide. Mr Sugrue highlighted a significant development for Letterkenny University Hospital, stating that a new surgical hub has been established, which he believes will enhance the quality of care for the region.

“It’s based upon data and output,” Mr Sugrue noted, referring to the importance of the hub in expanding healthcare facilities. He added, “For the people of the northwest, not only are you going to have a breast unit, you’re going to have a hospital that will expand and look after us in the future.”

Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill praised the event as a celebration of resilience and community support. Describing the ball as a “fantastically glamorous, fun, great craic celebration,” she acknowledged the exceptional care provided by the Breast Centre team.

“These are life-changing outcomes,” the Minister stated, commending the standard of care and the compassion shown by healthcare professionals. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving health services in Donegal, promising to expand facilities and recruit more staff.

Future Goals and Funding Initiatives

Maire Lynam, Chair of the Breast Cancer Ball Committee, emphasized the importance of the funds raised through the event. Over the past 15 years, the Breast Centre North West Research and Development Fund has supported crucial research projects, with a current balance of €200,000 earmarked for the purchase of an automated ultrasound machine featuring artificial intelligence, which would be the first of its kind in the country.

As the evening progressed, attendees participated in auctions and raffles aimed at further boosting funding for ongoing research and optimal breast care practices. The continuous support from the community underscores the vital role that such events play in advancing cancer care in the region.

The North West Breast Cancer Charity Ball not only celebrates the achievements in cancer treatment but also fosters a strong sense of community among those affected by the disease. The collective effort to improve cancer care in Donegal reflects a commitment to ensuring that no one faces the challenges of cancer alone.