Irish Author Emma Hannigan Shares “Farewell” Message As She Reveals Her Cancer Has Returned

Megan Cassidy

Irish author Emma Hannigan has revealed that her cancer has returned in a heartbreaking ‘farewell’ post on her website.

The mother-of-two and author of Letters to my Daughters discovered she had the BRCA1 gene in 2005, and beat cancer ten times in ten years.

Now she says she is left with little time.

In the post, she wrote:

“The conversation I never wanted to have has been said.

“My medical team have thrown everything but the kitchen sink at this fight but all avenues have now been exhausted. To say that I am heartbroken doesn’t begin to cover it.

“But I feel I’d like to say something, after all that’s what I’ve done over the years – say stuff, write stuff and tell you what’s going down. So I feel it wouldn’t be fair to leave you out in the cold right now

“I’ve gained such strength from all of you. We’ve shared tips and hints and stories over the years. For all of it – thank you. “

I’m thrilled 2 announce #AllToLiveFor is in Irish bk shops now! It’s #TalkToTheHeadscarf updated with added material & NO misery I promise???? pic.twitter.com/Gyi0EAI7Yu

— Emma Hannigan Author (@MsEmmaHannigan) August 4, 2017

“Nothing else has much meaning anymore. Just the love I feel for the people I hold dear. My two babies (ok they both tower over me, but I’m still allowed call them my babies) my husband, my parents, my family, my friends and readers. Yes you guys are up there on the short list. You’ve been an integral part of my existence and have championed me and held me in your virtual arms.

“The love in my heart is all that matters now. I am broken-hearted at having to say goodbye so if it’s alright we’ll say farewell instead. Mind each other. Be kind to each other and hold those you love close by.

“Life is so very precious. We never know the day or hour that it will be whipped away. So fill your days with as much happiness as you can muster.

“Stay away from drains, we all know them, they’re the people pull the good out of everything. The ones who suck the beauty from things and change colour to black and white. Leave them to fester – I think they’re secretly enjoying being grim.

“Instead, gravitate towards the light and laughter. Like a moth to a flame, remembering not to get your pretty wings burnt. You’ll like it better there, I promise.

“Farewell and thank you, I am taking a bow. Until we meet again may all that is good and decent be yours.”