Paula Guckian’s Cancer Journey: Triumph Over Adversity

BREAKING: Paula Guckian, a 45-year-old mother from Leitrim, has emerged victorious in her battle against breast cancer, sharing her inspiring journey of resilience and recovery. Guckian’s diagnosis and treatment story underscores the critical importance of early detection and persistent advocacy for women’s health.

In March 2022, Guckian discovered a lump under her right arm while showering. Despite her doctor’s initial reassurance, the lump persisted, leading her to insist on further examinations. By December 29, 2022, after a visit to St James’s Hospital in Dublin, she underwent a biopsy that confirmed her worst fears: an invasive ductal carcinoma diagnosis.

“I knew the minute a breast care nurse came into the room that I had cancer,” Guckian recounted. “I was told I would need chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and a mastectomy.” Faced with the devastating news, her primary concern shifted to her two teenage daughters, Robyn and Lottie, as well as her early years care business, rather than her own health.

Guckian began a 12-week chemotherapy regimen, followed by a mastectomy. “In the week leading up to surgery, I didn’t want to do it and went to a very bad place,” she shared. On the day of her surgery, she was filled with fear, but her surgeon’s reassurance helped ease her anxiety: “You’re going to come out of it without your breast, but you will also come out without cancer.”

Post-surgery, Guckian experienced a challenging recovery but remained optimistic. In September 2023, she began radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Almost a year after her treatment, she underwent breast reconstruction, marking a significant turning point in her journey. “Now I finally feel like I’m almost back to myself,” she stated, reflecting on her regained energy and determination to live a full life.

Guckian is now advocating for breast cancer awareness and encouraging women to check for irregularities. “Any woman who presents with a lump should have a mammogram,” she asserted. “If I had been scanned earlier, I might have just needed a lumpectomy.”

In support of Breast Cancer Ireland, Guckian will participate in the Very Pink Run on September 6, 2023, in Leopardstown, Co Dublin. “I won’t be running, but will be walking with my very tight group of gorgeous women who stuck by me throughout,” she said, inviting others to join the cause.

Breast Cancer Ireland CEO Aisling Hurley emphasized the necessity of awareness, stating, “Research and awareness will lead to zero deaths from breast cancer.” With statistics showing that one in seven women will develop breast cancer, it’s crucial to promote early detection and support for those affected.

As Guckian reflects on her journey, she wishes she could tell her past self, “It’s going to be OK.” She encourages others facing similar battles to embrace the support around them and to trust in the healthcare system.

The fight against breast cancer is ongoing, and stories like Guckian’s serve as powerful reminders of hope and resilience. Every step taken in awareness events like the Very Pink Run brings us closer to a future free from breast cancer.