Kates’s Story:

Based in Wexford, Kate was a busy working Mum of 7 adult kids, who felt in control of her body and her world. Then a breast cancer diagnosis from a routine mammogram shocked and angered her, and set her on a journey to regain that control.

“I had my routine mammogram booked for the 25th Oct 2022.

“Honestly, it was an appointment that I wasn’t too stressed about. After all I had no symptoms – no bumps, no lumps, no illness. Plus, I’d breast fed all my kids, which I thought was my insurance policy against breast cancer.

“However, a week after my mammogram, I got a call back. I needed another mammogram and a biopsy. Sitting in the consultant’s room getting the subsequent results… and being told I had stage one oestrogen positive breast cancer… shocked me. And, I was furious. I felt I’d been betrayed by my body.

“I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a control freak – I like to plan, I like certainly. This diagnosis made me feel like I had no control over my body and because some of the subsequent information is delivered to you in chunks and not all up front, I lacked that certainty.

“I needed to find a way to get myself back in control, and the first step I took is the one tip I would give all cancer sufferers – find your tribe! And, realistically, your tribe is not your family. They are often too close to you and the situation – and you’re probably trying to protect them. Find people travelling the same journey and living similar experiences to you.

“I joined the most amazing breast cancer support Facebook group. I met some wonderful people through this who became vital to my life and journey. And some became friends outside of the group too.

“I’ve become best friends with one lady from the west of Ireland. Our breast cancer ops were a day apart and we were able to help each other through. We continued to compare notes throughout our recoveries, and, now, encourage each other to live life to the maximum. We still talk every day and see each other when we can. I’d be lost without her friendship.

“One of the other things that really helped me through this experience was finding a way to feel in control of my body again. Following my op in December 2022 and subsequent radiotherapy, I joined a gym! It was local to me and run by a retired Bulgarian bodybuilder… and throughout each of my first three sessions, I cried.  I’m sure he thought I was mad 😊.

Kate leading her spinning class

“But he was hugely supportive and could see my determination. Now, eighteen months down the line I go weight training four times a week. He also encouraged me to try spinning – which I detested at first. I struggled to find a class that really worked for me. Eventually, I said to myself I can do this better! So, I qualified as a Spinning Instructor and now I teach spin at the gym a couple of times a week. We incorporate weights, dance, fabulous music and it really drives those dopamine levels.

“Once more I feel in control of my body. And, when I think about all these ‘pink warriors’ and the subsequent impact on their bodies of this disease and required treatment… I’m really hoping they can find something like this exercise dopamine fix I get, to help them feel their body is their own again.

“If you’re facing in to this battle – please remember, find your tribe – there’s strength in sharing with fellow warriors. And, be sure to embrace something that once again makes you feel in control of your body.”

Kate Byrne, Wexford

Using her new found strength, Kate joined our November 30-Day Squat Challenge to raise funds to support and enhance breast cancer care at the Mater Hospital. You can still support Kate and the rest of our ‘Squat Superstars here – https://eventmaster.ie/fundraising/campaign/30_Day_Squat_Challenge

Thank You 🧡