Meet Pat O'Gorman, one of our new Advocacy Volunteers
In January 2018, Pat O’Gorman was diagnosed with both stomach cancer and coeliac disease on the same day. Having lost his brother to stomach cancer in 2012, Pat was aware of the challenging journey he faced and proceeded to undergo chemotherapy, as well as a full gastrectomy.
“I was fortunate that my cancer was caught early and I experienced great care. However, as a cancer survivor, I know the financial and logistical challenges that face cancer patients, on top of the physical and mental impact of the disease.”
Pat completed his treatment in 2018 and has gone on to travel extensively in Argentina, Portugal, Hong Kong and Thailand. He and his wife, Sylvia, are also busy keeping up with their six children and thirteen grandchildren.
'As a cancer survivor, I know the financial and logistical challenges that face cancer patients, on top of the physical and mental impact of the disease'
Pat recently joined the Irish Cancer Society’s new Advocacy Network as the Advocacy Champion in his local constituency of Dublin Fingal. Along with Advocacy Champion volunteers from around the country, he has completed online training and has the resources and support necessary to begin advocating for real change for cancer patients.
“Having gone through a cancer diagnosis, it is important to me to highlight issues that cancer patients face including the use of debt collectors by hospitals and unfair charges such as excessive hospital car parking fees. The training and support offered by the Advocacy Team at the Irish Cancer Society will help me to tell my story, work with local politicians and be a voice for cancer patients in my community.”
The Irish Cancer Society is currently recruiting Advocacy Champions in a number of constituencies across Ireland. Advocacy Champions work closely with our Advocacy Team to ensure that the voices of cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones are heard at all levels of Government.
Learn more and get involved at www.cancer.ie/advocate
We are looking for cancer patients, survivors, family members, caregivers and anyone passionate about improving outcomes for cancer patients to lend their voices to our vital campaigns.
Contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line
If you have worries or concerns about cancer, you can speak confidentially to an Irish Cancer Society Cancer Nurse through the Freephone Support Line on 1800 200 700.
Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm
For more information
Phone
1800 200 700
