A mum of three from Co Tyrone has spoken of her battle against breast cancer as she prepares to take on a fundraiser to help others fighting the disease.
Naoimh Simpson, 43, from Strabane was diagnosed with the condition last year after finding a lump on her breast, and underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy in order to fight it.
Thankfully Naoimh responded well to her treatment, but said the effects of her diagnosis were more than just physical.
“I found a lump along my ribcage, under my right breast when doing a routine breast check. I had previously had a fibroadenoma in my left breast (a harmless breast lump) so whilst I didn’t delay in getting checked out, I was initially unconcerned,” Naoimh said.
“I got an appointment with the doctor and a referral to the breast clinic within two weeks. The fast-track system meant that although I was at this appointment for four hours, I was told the same day that I had cancer.
“The wait to the next appointment was the most difficult part, as I had to wait for a full diagnostic assessment of the cancer and the treatment would be based on the outcome.
“I had my first chemotherapy treatment in less than a month from finding the lump, for which I am very grateful. Following the surgery, I was fortunate enough to have had a complete response to treatment.
“The care I received during my treatment was second to none, but the effects of a diagnosis reach far beyond the physical, and the ripples stretch into family and friends.”
Naoimh received her treatment for the disease during the height of Covid-19 restrictions in 2021, so attended many appointments alone and without the support of friends and family.
“My treatment has taken place within the tightest of restrictions during the pandemic,” the Strabane woman added.
“I had to attend most of my appointments alone and I wasn’t allowed any visitors when I was in hospital.
“This was very difficult at times, but the medical teams made sure that support was there at every turn."
As a result of her treatment, Naoimh was told that she would lose her hair, an experience she was anxious about but was able to get through thanks to the laughter of her children.
Naoimh added: “When that day finally came, my kids got out the scissors and hair clippers and helped me shave my head.
“Which turned a potentially traumatic event into an evening of laughter and support. I got a fringe, a curtain hairdo, and a mullet!”
Naoimh is taking on the March a Million challenge next month in order to raise funds for Cancer Focus NI, where she is hoping to complete one million steps throughout March.
Naoimh and her neighbour Michelle are taking on the challenge and so far they have raised £2,000 ahead of its start.
“This will be a serious challenge for me as I have episodes of fatigue that can be overwhelming some days.
“However, walking has been great for this and it’s a gentle exercise that is helping me regain my strength in the right way. I am committed to giving it my best shot.”
