Muireann O’Connell has revealed she recently underwent a series of tests for breast cancer, after finding a lump.
The Six O’Clock Show host was shocked and upset when she discovered it during a routine self-check, but sought medical advice straight away.
After tests, ultrasounds and a mammogram, Muireann was given the all-clear – and now she’s urging others to pay close attention to their bodies, regularly check for lumps and monitor any changes.
Speaking about the process, Muireann said, “A few weeks ago, I was sitting on the couch, watching telly and giving myself a breast exam, as I often do in moments when I’m relaxed and zoned out. For the first time ever, I felt a lump and had a tiny little freak attack.
“Rather than procrastinate like I do with everything else in my life, I got myself to the GP lively. I was hoping my doctor would say “you’re imagining things! Get off google MD! That was a lump of cheese that had fallen down your top!”; she didn’t and organised a referral to the breast check clinic in St. James’ Hospital.”
She continued, “In the days and weeks spent waiting for the appointment, it felt like I was constantly inhaling, just that little bit tense and always aware that there was a lump in a place no one wants a lump.
“The appointment was on Monday morning just gone. Every single staff member I met in St. James’ was lovely, and calm, and organised. In the middle of a pandemic, that’s no mean feat.
“The doctor I met was sound, I liked her immediately. I was sent off for my mammogram. If you haven’t had one, I’m sure you’ve heard they’re uncomfortable and what you’ve heard is true. I had my ultrasound and I was given the all clear.”
The presenter was told she has cysts which will regularly return – but she’s so grateful that it was nothing worse.
“I am so very aware of how lucky I am. There were going to be at least 80 people seen in the breast check clinic that day and not all will have gotten the good news that I did,” she said.
“Every 3 minutes, someone gets diagnosed with some form of cancer in Ireland. That’s a terrifying statistic. Please don’t ignore any change in your body. Make that appointment as soon as you can. It comes with fabulous clothes!”
Every year over 3000 women in Ireland are diagnosed with breast cancer, and as the numbers are so high, early detection is vital.
Breast Cancer Ireland revealed some of the key warning signs to look out for, including lumps, unusual swelling, puckering of the skin, or changes in size. For more, visit breastcancerireland.com.
