Limerick woman selected as patient ambassador for Very Pink Run
Ms O’Connell was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2012, aged 41
LIMERICK woman Juliette O’Connell has been announced as a patient ambassador for Breast Cancer Ireland’s Very Pink Run in Cork.
Ms O’Connell was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2012, aged 41, after discovering a rash on her chest.
"For me at 41, I wasn’t breast aware,” she explained. “I didn’t know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer apart from a lump.”
She continued: “It was a tough time, but I’m incredibly grateful that I’m now ten years cancer free.
“I am now a member of the Breast Cancer Ireland family and working as one of their outreach coordinators in the Munster area. I love my job and I want to give this very important message to all.”
Thousands are set to lace up for the events as the pink-powered fundraiser, sponsored by online retailer Very, returns for another year.
The event will see three large scale live events take place across Dublin, Kilkenny and Cork between August 29 and September 6 – all in support of ground breaking breast cancer research and nationwide awareness and education programmes.
Cork’s live event will take place on the grounds of MTU Cork on September 6.
A spokesperson for the fundraiser said: “Now bigger and brighter than ever, this event is a full-on feel-good festival combining fun, fitness, community spirit and purpose. More than just a fun run, jog or walk event, it has become a nationwide movement that unites thousands of participants (men, women and children) in support of a future free from breast cancer.”
Since its inception, the Very Pink Run has grown into "a truly global movement”, with over 110,000 participants across 40 countries, raising a phenomenal €8million+ to date.
The spokesperson continued: “Alongside the 5k and 10k run and walk routes, guests can enjoy live music, children’s entertainment, family games and a range of festival style food trucks, promising a fun filled, uplifting atmosphere from start to finish. There are no limits – and no pressure, just a shared commitment to making a difference.”