Irish Singer Klara McDonnell Triumphs Over Breast Cancer at 42

UPDATE: In a remarkable journey of resilience, Irish singer Klara McDonnell is now cancer-free at 42 years old, having faced a shocking breast cancer diagnosis just three years ago. McDonnell, who was diagnosed on December 4, 2019, is using her experience to spread vital awareness about breast health and early detection.

At just 37, McDonnell discovered a slight swelling and tenderness in her breast while showering. With no family history of cancer, the diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer was devastating. “I was non-smoker and a vegan, but I didn’t regularly check my breasts,” she admitted.

Helen Forristal, director of nursing services at the Marie Keating Foundation, emphasizes the importance of self-examination: “Know how your breasts look and feel. This helps you notice any unusual changes.”

After a GP appointment confirmed the presence of a lump, McDonnell underwent a series of tests at Waterford Hospital, leading to her diagnosis. The latest data shows that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Ireland, with approximately 3,616 women diagnosed each year and 753 fatalities.

Despite her initial shock, McDonnell drew strength from her family. “I genuinely believed I was going to die,” she recalled, but her mother’s encouragement to maintain a positive mindset helped her through. After beginning treatment in February 2020, including chemotherapy and a successful lumpectomy, she was declared “cancer-free.”

However, McDonnell’s journey did not end there. Testing positive for the BRCA 1 gene in February 2021 revealed a higher risk for other cancers. She opted for a double mastectomy and oophorectomy in July 2021 as a preventative measure.

Now, McDonnell shares her story through her TikTok channel, urging others to prioritize their health. “If you think there’s something wrong, go to your GP. Early diagnosis can save lives,” she insists.

Forristal highlights the progress made in breast cancer treatment: “While diagnoses are rising, so are survival rates due to improved awareness and medical advancements.”

As of July 2025, McDonnell is five years cancer-free and continues to advocate for regular check-ups. “I still think about cancer every day, but I focus on looking to the future,” she stated.

Her message of hope and resilience is clear: “There’s always a way forward.” McDonnell’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and early detection in the fight against breast cancer.