Tallaght mother Strictly against Breast Cancer
By Mary Dennehy
A TALLAGHT mother who is behind an online support group for women diagnosed with breast cancer is taking to the floor with a line-up of celebrity dancers for this year’s gala Strictly against Breast Cancer.
Teresa Costello (36), who works for UDG Healthcare in Citywest, was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2013, after which she helped establish Facebook support page, Breast Friends – due to a lack of support and awareness for people who were diagnosed under the age of 40.
Due to her positivity and determination, Teresa was invited to take part in this year’s Strictly against Breast Cancer and has partnered up with Ireland AM weatherman, Deric Hartigan – who together will dance off against personalities including Norah Casey (Dragon’s Den), George McMahon (Fair City), former rugby hooker Shane Byrne and more.
Despite a busy rehearsal schedule, Teresa took five to speak with her local paper.
What was the first thought that went through your head when you were diagnosed with breast cancer?
I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in August 2013. There were many initial thoughts, it’s a very surreal experience like watching someone else life unfold, many emotions flash through your head, but the one that sticks out was about my son, he was only five and for some reason a fear was triggered in me that I wouldn’t be around for his First Holy Communion, but he’s making it in May and I guess that makes it an extra special celebration for me. It’s a major milestone in his life and I am so grateful to be happy and healthy sharing it with him.