In response to Covid-19 restrictions, the Irish Cancer Society introduced remote counselling to ensure people could continue to access this vital support.

Sue Keegan was one such patient who relied on the service to help her through a tough time after she was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer. Mum-of-two Sue (51), from Crumlin, received one-to-one counselling sessions. Sue required hospitalisation for a stem cell transplant while her husband was also hospitalised for separate health issues – meaning her children aged 18 and 12 were home alone for seven weeks.

Despite being out of hospital, the whole experience of her cancer journey took its toll and Sue realised she needed some extra help. “I was thinking to myself, ‘I’ll be fine, I’m just going to fight this on my own’ until one day in August I just broke down when I was out shopping with my husband. I got on to the Irish Cancer Society Daffodil Centre in the hospital and they referred me for counselling.

“It’s been the best thing I’ve ever done, it’s an amazing free service. I’d really encourage anyone who finds themselves in a similar position to do the same,” added Sue, who is now in remission.

Daffodil Day 2021, kindly supported by Boots, takes place on Friday 26 March.

To get involved, visit cancer.ie where you can make a donation, visit our Daffodil Day shop, or to host a virtual Daffodil Day event.

For support or advice, contact the Irish Cancer Society’s Support Line on Freephone 1800200700 or email a specialist cancer nurse today.