Author: Lynch Syndrome Ireland

Young researchers from the ColoMARK network across Europe

n December 2023 PVCR and Bowel Cancer Ireland (previously Irish Colorectal Cancer Community) ran an in-person training workshop for 10 young researchers from the ColoMARK network across Europe. These 10 young researchers are now releasing a ColoMARK video series. 
These short videos offer a glimpse into their individual research projects on colorectal cancer detection and monitoring, showcasing the interdisciplinary and cutting-edge work being conducted within the ColoMARK MSCA Doctoral Network.

New videos are released weekly. 

Watch and subscribe to the series on their YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@ColoMARK_DN

Bowel Cancer in Ireland: 

Patients, Bowels, Basics, and Breakthroughs
On 11th & 12th September, RSCI is holding a bowel cancer event dedicated to patients, families, and the wider community affected by this cancer. 

PVCR Chair Prof Amanda McCann is leading a session on Friday 12th September at 1:30pm on “The Importance of PPI in Research” with PhD students from ColoMARK and patient advocates from Bowel Cancer Ireland.

There will also be open conversations with doctors, researchers, and experts in fertility, sexual health, and psycho-oncology across the two days. 

You can click here or scan the QR code below to register. Any questions or concerns can be directed to EpiGastroDRG@outlook.com

You can also check out their free bowel cancer informational booklet here or through the QR code below to the right.

Finding Support in Unexpected Places Through Hereditary Cancer Advocacy

Key Takeaways:
  • Hereditary cancer syndromes, despite genetic differences, share common challenges like risk-reducing surgeries and emotional burdens, necessitating comprehensive advocacy and support.
  • Honest dialogue about the complexities of living with hereditary cancer risks is crucial, even if it involves discussing difficult truths about surgical outcomes.
  • Amy Byer Shainman exemplifies effective advocacy through education, films, and writings, providing a voice to those navigating genetic cancer risks.
  • Real support involves empathy and standing by individuals, acknowledging their complex stories and ensuring they don’t face their challenges alone.

https://www.curetoday.com/view/finding-support-in-unexpected-places-through-hereditary-cancer-advocacy?fbclid=IwY2xjawMTrS1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHtD4vd53G8khEpi8yVRc1ZgAOJl9xhoSxSr8M0l9AKHWTT2W_PiwqsoIE03m_aem_I5FK0MsU87kUn0EuHxXBUA

‘A Quiet Love’ review: Sensitive documentary follows three deaf Irish couples

Documenting the relationships of three very different deaf Irish couples, A Quiet Love is an intimate, big-hearted celebration of everyday triumph over adversity.

As its title suggests, the film does not paint its subjects as all-conquering heroes, rather normal people navigating a challenging path through life. In allowing its subjects to tell their own stories entirely in their own words – all communicate through Irish Sign Language (ISL) – the film effectively spotlights a community not often given space on screen.

https://www.screendaily.com/reviews/a-quiet-love-review-sensitive-documentary-follows-three-deaf-irish-couples/5206665.article

Patients, Bowels, Basics and Breakthroughs

Very excited to share that @rcsi_irl ‘Patients, Bowels, Basics and Breakthroughs’ is back!!!

This two day event is aimed at bringing together the patient & professional community to explore the landscape of bowel cancer, with focus on the unique challenges of early-onset disease like fertility, sexual health and much more!

Learn about the latest research directly from those carrying out the work! It will feature fantastic speakers from across Ireland, the UK and Europe and powerful patient voices sharing their lived experiences.

There’ll be exciting panel discussions, a poster session and even a lab tour! 

What makes this event even more special is the people behind it. The fabulous (and I mean fabulous!) RCSI Epigastro Disease Research Group who have opened their doors to ourselves at @lynchsyndromeireland & @BowelCancerIreland and welcomed us as valued team members to co-organise these important events. This is more than patient involvement this is true PPI partnership. Together we can do more.

This free event is open to patients and their family members, carers, healthcare professionals and members of the public who would like to learn more about this very common cancer. 

When: 11 & 12 September 2025

Where: RCSI St Stephens Green Dublin 

Registration is essential. Scan the QR code on poster to register today. Please share the event with anyone who you feel would benefit or be interested.  

Let’s talk about bowel cancer, let’s do it all together!

#bowelcancer #CancerResearch #PPI#EOCRC

Cancer Revolution Exhibition

WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER
  • Real stories from people affected by cancer
  • Groundbreaking science that’s shaping the future of treatment
  • Interactive exhibits that let you explore how cancer works
  • The surprising truth about prevention, early detection, and personalised treatment
  • Hope – through the power of research

https://breakthroughcancerresearch.ie/cancer-revolution/

Building Supportive Communities for Patients Navigating Cancer

Key Takeaways
  • Stage 4 cancer patients often find more relevant information from peers than healthcare providers, highlighting the importance of community connections.
  • The cancer community’s collective wisdom aids in finding appropriate care, resources, and support for patients and their families.
  • Despite the loneliness of a cancer diagnosis, being part of a supportive network ensures individuals are never truly alone.
  • The willingness of cancer advocates to share knowledge and resources is invaluable in helping others navigate their diagnosis and treatment journey.

https://www.curetoday.com/view/building-supportive-communities-for-patients-navigating-cancer

Clinical “noise” in medicine: it’s not what you think

“Women are NOT just men with boobs and tubes.”

“We have our own anatomy and physiology that deserve to be studied.  One of the biggest and most flawed assumptions in medicine is:  if it makes sense in a male body, it must make sense in a female one, too. But in every aspect, our current medical model is based on, tailored to, and evaluated according to male standards.”

Clinical “noise” in medicine: it’s not what you think

#Cancer Revolution

If you are in Dublin over the coming weeks, please call to @BreakthroCancer#CancerRevolution exhibition which opens today.

Read the inspiring stories, get to see what is being done in #research.

1/2 of us will get a #cancer diagnosis

Putting Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer on the Map

A recent survey reveals the extent of the issue: 75% of EOCRC patients saw at least two doctors before receiving a diagnosis, and 20% saw four or more. These delays, often driven by medical bias, can be life-altering.

Putting Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer on the Map: A Milestone Moment at ESMO GI 2025