In January 2021, I found a lump on my right breast. Less than one month later; I was diagnosed with breast cancer. A day I will never forget. One of my ways of dealing with this diagnosis was through writing poetry, often when sitting waiting for appointments or at moments during the day when inspiration came. It was a way to document my journey through cancer- both the good and the challenging. The poems are written in date order and are like diary entries to document the various stages of my treatment.

This cancer journey is unique to me, as I am aware that everyone’s cancer journey is so different. My message to all reading this book is the importance of breast self-check.

And maybe for someone else out there who is going through or has gone through cancer, these words might provide some comfort or understanding. Writing poetry helped ease the journey of illness for me. Cancer can be a solitary journey, but by harnessing the intense emotions it generated into poetry, I found a community and support. Like me, many other cancer survivors found beauty and grace interwoven with their devastation, and an intense appreciation for life after going through cancer. These poems felt like snapshots of the beautiful and terrible moments, and writing them was as therapeutic for me as the treatment I was receiving. And for some, writing poetry can be a powerful way to express their feelings about cancer and their journey back to health.

All profits from the sale of this book go to a cancer charity who are so dear to my heart: Cork ARC House, which supported me on my journey through breast cancer treatment. Thankfully I am out the other side and in recovery. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you do for anyone undergoing cancer treatment and for their families.

Details about the work of Cork ARC House can be found on corkcancersupport. ie. Please purchase to support the ongoing work of this amazing charity.