A Killarney grandmother and cancer survivor has urged the public to support Daffodil Day on Friday March 25.

Anne Dolan (59), who lost two brothers to cancer before coming through her own diagnosis, says she is glad to be able to spend time with her grandchildren after receiving treatment for breast cancer in 2016.

“It was an awful worry after losing my brothers to cancer – Tommy in 1997 and then Donie in 2004 – when my own mammogram picked up a lump,” she said.

“My daughter was expecting our first grandchild during my chemotherapy treatment. It was such a terrifying time, not knowing if I’d be around to see the little child grow up.

“Thankfully it was a good outcome for me. She is nearly five now, and is the love of my life. We also had our second grandchild last July, and it was so different this time. I’m determined to see both my grandchildren grow up.”

During her illness she reached out for support from the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Centre in Cork University Hospital during her time there.

“I was always one of the first to get my daffodil every year and wear it with pride. Especially after the experience with my brothers, we’ve always been very supportive of it,” she added.

“The Daffodil Centre nurses referred me for the 'Look Good Feel Better' programme and it was amazing. At the time you have no hair and you’re feeling like crap, but it makes you feel like a million dollars, it’s a fabulous service.”

Daffodil Day returns to the streets for the first time since 2019 on March 25.

The Irish Cancer Society is calling on the public to take part in any way they can to show solidarity and support for anyone affected by cancer.