Our peer to peer support panel is made up of … Read their stories below.
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Elaine Carpenter
Age group: 36-45
Type of Cancer: Breast Cancer
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36. I am a mother to four young children. My treatment was surgery, chemo- and radiotherapy.
I would like to be able to support someone in a similar position.
Gunasheela Shetty
Age group: 46-55
Type of Cancer: Maxillary Sinus (left) cancer
My journey of ‘new normal’ following cancer diagnosis, was touched by many people (known and unknown), who were very helpful.
Being of South-Asian background, blended in Irish culture for more than 20 years, gives me a different perspective.
When you live in a different continent, thousands of miles away from your family and friends, battling a critical illness, that puts you in the real test of your life.
From my life experience, at this stage of my survivor journey, if I could try help to bring positivity even to a single individual and help them navigate their difficult phase of life, I would feel it’s worth doing it.
Helen Sinnott
Age group: 46-55
Type of Cancer: Breast Cancer
In late 2020 I was diagnosed with breast cancer, which came as a shock as I was always fit, healthy and involved in sport.
Following surgery and treatment my ambition was to return to work and participate in sport. 20 months later I achieved this goal. Work represented normality for me and I am proud to be selected as a peer supporter for the HSE.
Helena Balfe
Age group: 44-55
Type of Cancer: Breast Cancer
A proud Meath lady, wife and mother of two beautiful girls and a handsome boy (biased of course). A varied career with wide experiences and wonderful opportunities, but have enjoyed the last 25 plus years in the profession of nursing. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014, at the age of 42.
I was supported by the Mater Hospital staff through surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a measure of emotional and psychological support that provided an inner strength to navigate an unknown unpredictable journey.
Have been able to continue to be appreciative of the simpler things in life, dearly love family, friends and food and try – where possible – to enjoy all three simultaneously. I love nature and a good book. Value honesty, authenticity, fairness and strive for contentment.
Isabelle McShane
Age group: 36-45
Type of Cancer: Cervical
I was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2018. This was after my first smear test. I had watched the lovely, late, Laura Brennan on The Late Late Show tell her story and I decided that I should really go for a smear test. I was 37 years old.
I was undergoing surgery for a hysterectomy when they discovered that the cancer had spread to a couple of my lymph nodes. Surgery was then stopped. I then underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy for 6 weeks and had 3 sessions of brachytherapy.
My treatment was difficult, but thankfully this treatment worked. I still attend appointments until I reach the “magic” 5 year mark.
