UPDATE: In a powerful message during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Irene Karagiolis, a Keilor Park resident and mother, shares her inspiring journey as a two-time cancer survivor. After battling breast cancer and recently diagnosed with uterine cancer, Irene emphasizes the critical importance of vigilance in monitoring one’s health.
Diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2017 at just 40 years old, Irene’s journey began when a routine mammogram revealed the disease. Initially, doctors found no trace, but after an early follow-up, she discovered the cancer had aggressively spread to her lymph nodes. “It was a shock. I was only 41 years old… if I waited 18 months, my prognosis would have been a lot worse,” Irene recounted.
In Australia, women aged between 50 and 74 qualify for a free mammogram every two years. However, due to her family history, Irene was advised to start screenings at 40. She credits early detection for her survival, as more women are being diagnosed at younger ages.
Irene underwent an intense treatment regimen, including 16 rounds of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiotherapy at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. During her treatment, she utilized a scalp cooling system that helped preserve her hair, enhancing her self-esteem during a challenging time. “It gives you that confidence to feel a lot better,” she shared.
Following her treatment, Irene returned to her daily life and was prescribed tamoxifen to prevent recurrence. However, she was informed of the possible side effect of uterine cancer. Tragically, in January 2023, she experienced symptoms and was swiftly diagnosed with uterine cancer. “They caught it early before it could spread,” she stated, highlighting the importance of prompt medical attention.
Despite the challenges, Irene remains hopeful. “You’d probably call me the luckiest unlucky person to cop cancer twice before the age of 50,” she said, reflecting on the preventive nature of her treatments. While her recent chemotherapy did not have the same success with scalp cooling, leading to significant hair loss, Irene’s resilience shines through.
Just recently, she completed treatment, and as of now, she reports no trace of disease in her body. “I’m trying to stay positive. I’ve done everything the hospital has told me to do… just to give myself the best chance of this thing never ever coming back again,” she urged.
Celebrating her 50th birthday this month, Irene expressed her gratitude for life. “I’m so grateful to be alive. I really can’t believe how I went through it all,” she said. Her message to women is clear: “If there’s something that’s not right, just go and get it checked. You’re better off wasting everybody’s time than letting this thing fester.”
Irene’s story serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of early detection and the need for continuous health vigilance. As she continues her journey, she inspires others to prioritize their health, urging women everywhere to take action when it comes to their bodies.
This urgent message from a survivor not only highlights the reality of cancer but also emphasizes the power of awareness and proactive health measures.
