Hazel Brennan’s unexpected path to a breast cancer diagnosis
Hazel Brennan, a 50-year-old mother from Athlone, Co Westmeath, took a rare weekend break with her husband, John, at the start of the year. The couple hoped for a brief escape with no hint of the life-changing news to come. During the trip, Hazel noticed an unusual dent or small trough under her left nipple. She didn’t initially worry, thinking she might have injured herself. Still, she decided to seek medical advice once they returned home.
Her first step was a visit to the GP, who could not determine the cause and referred her to a breast clinic. An ultrasound and subsequent biopsy were scheduled, and Hazel recalls the wait as a tense blur. The moment of truth arrived on February 20th, when she learned that the news was not what she had hoped for. Doctors told her she faced two types of cancer — lobular and ductile — with no clear origin, a finding that necessitated a mastectomy on the left side to save her life.
Facing such a diagnosis while juggling family responsibilities and the recent loss in her husband’s family added an extra layer of emotional strain. Hazel and John were overwhelmed, yet medical guidance left no room for doubt: surgery was essential. The couple soon confronted another decision: whether to undergo reconstruction after the mastectomy. Initially choosing to remain flat, Hazel ultimately opted for a partial reconstruction following discussions with a breast care nurse.
The surgery proceeded with a positive outcome, though Hazel faced post-operative challenges, including a few infections. Lymph nodes were removed due to cancerous activity, but the doctors determined that radiation therapy would not be necessary, which she regards as a fortunate turn in her treatment. The experience has left Hazel with both gratitude for the medical team and a continued awareness of the emotional and physical toll of cancer treatment.
The emotional and practical impact of a cancer diagnosis
Hazel notes that even in the wake of successful surgery, the internal struggle persists. Some days feel light, as if she could “fly around the place,” while others bring a heavy sense of fatigue and worry. The loss of a breast carries a profound sense of identity and body image, one that is still part of Hazel’s daily life as she focuses on healing and supporting her children. Her reflections on comments from well-meaning observers—such as compliments on her appearance—underscore the complex reality of returning to normal life after cancer treatment. Hazel emphasizes that those who have not faced cancer may not fully understand the emotional landscape they cannot see in someone’s eyes or demeanor.
Why early detection matters: a call to action
The Irish Cancer Society and healthcare professionals stress that while most breast changes aren’t cancer, timely medical consultation is crucial. Sarah Egan, a cancer awareness nurse with the Irish Cancer Society, highlights that early diagnosis improves outcomes and broadens treatment options. Hazel’s story reinforces the message that routine checks, listening to one’s body, and seeking medical advice for any unusual changes can make a life-changing difference.
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Irish women, with thousands diagnosed annually. While risk factors include age, family history, and dense breast tissue, a healthy lifestyle—regular screening, balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and not smoking—also plays a role in risk reduction. Symptoms can vary, and not all are evident at first glance, which is why awareness and regular clinical exams are vital.
Advice from Hazel for others facing breast changes
For Hazel, the core message is simple: know your body and seek care promptly. If you notice anything unusual, such as a persistent lump, a change in breast texture, or new breast changes, book an appointment with your GP or a breast clinic. Hazel also reminds others not to minimize fatigue and other nonspecific symptoms, especially if they are persistent, as these can be signs worth investigating. Early detection, she believes, is the key to better outcomes and options—and it can save lives.
Support networks and ongoing care
Throughout her journey, Hazel has relied on support from family, friends, and organizations such as the Irish Cancer Society. She encourages others to seek help and stay connected, recognizing that ongoing care often extends beyond surgery and into emotional well-being and recovery strategies. For many facing breast cancer, maintaining hope and purpose—while pushing through difficult days—remains integral to recovery.
