29/09/2026
3 years today, and I still remember the rollercoaster of emotions I experienced while waiting for the biopsy results, and then hearing the word “unfortunately” — just a few weeks after I turned 40.
And then I decided to paint those feelings.
When I was painting the first one, which I called Glenanne Unit, I had in mind all the women I met in the waiting rooms (there are two!), their fears, their tears, but also their relief. It’s a proper mixture of every possible emotion, and it is intense!
At the time, I was thinking it would be nice if that painting could be at the Glenanne Unit. And less than three years later, here we are.
I exhibited the Healing series in Portadown, not far from the Pretty and Pink treatment room, where I had a series of reflexology sessions with the incredibly gifted Marita, just after my treatment.
After my exhibition, Leanne, the CEO of Pretty and Pink, contacted me and said they would like the Glenanne Unit painting to become part of their comfort room.
And this is how I learned that Pretty and Pink is not only a charity that provides amazing support for women with breast cancer — it is also the result of a big and deep sisterhood love.
Two sisters who had to go through it, and who let their love grow through one of them choosing, every day, to invest in what feels right, despite the huge loss.
When I was in that room that day, I felt Noleen’s presence. And I found it truly amazing how the bond of sisterhood can stay strong and show up through action.
