IrelandBreast Cancer Survivor Urges Support
Alanna Kells, 28, diagnosed with stage three breast cancer, calls for public to back Irish Cancer Society's Pink campaign. She found a lump in her breast while lying in bed, which felt like a pearl from boba tea, malleable and not rock hard.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Alanna Kells, a 28-year-old from Belturbet, Co Cavan, was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2025. She had noticed a lump in her breast while lying in bed, which she initially thought might be muscle tissue.
Kells said the lump felt like a pearl from boba tea, was malleable, and not rock hard, which she assumed it would be if it was cancer. She decided to get it checked after her partner told her she should.
After visiting her GP, Kells was referred to a Breast Clinic, where she underwent further tests and received her diagnosis. The surgeon told her she had stage three invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer, hormone positive and HR negative.
Kells has undergone chemotherapy and a mastectomy, and will soon begin radiotherapy. She is now supporting the Irish Cancer Society's Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, encouraging people to host a Pink event to fund breast cancer support services and research projects.
Every year, around 3,600 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in Ireland, accounting for nearly one-third of all invasive female cancers.
Kells is sharing her story to raise awareness of breast cancer and encourage people to support the Pink campaign. She said people can donate or register their fundraising event at cancer.ie/pink.
The Irish Cancer Society highlights the importance of awareness and early action during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Around 13% of breast cancers occur in women aged between 15 and 44, with a 25% increase in cases in this age group over the past decade.
Key facts
- Alanna Kells, 28, diagnosed with stage three breast cancer
- Around 3,600 women and 30 men diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland each year
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Ireland
- 13% of breast cancers occur in women aged between 15 and 44
Three perspectives
Neutral
The Irish Cancer Society's Pink campaign aims to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer support services and research. People can get involved by hosting a Pink event or donating at cancer.ie/pink. The campaign runs during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Positive
Alanna Kells' story highlights the importance of regular breast checks and seeking medical attention if something feels unusual. Her support for the Pink campaign encourages others to take action and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Negative
The increase in breast cancer cases among younger women is a concern, with a 25% rise in cases among women aged 15-44 over the past decade. Delays in diagnosis and more aggressive tumours can make treatment more challenging for younger patients.
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