LIMERICK Dragons are seeking the support of all local politicians in this Friday’s General Election to pledge their commitment to lobbying for breast cancer patients to be entitled to medical cards.
The breast cancer survivors sports group aims to support members after breast cancer treatment through paddling and social interactions.
A cause close to the hearts of its members, many of the Limerick Dragons have themselves been affected by being refused a medical card while undergoing treatment and while dealing with the after effects, the group has said.
Breast cancer patients across the country face financial burdens that jeopardise their ability to receive critical medical treatments, follow-up care, and mental health support.
A medical card, the local support group said, would alleviate these challenges by covering costs related to medications, therapy, diagnostics, and other necessary health services.
The Limerick group, who can regularly be seen paddling on Shannonside, takes the view that a medical card should be mandatory once someone is diagnosed with breast cancer, as while undergoing treatment many people suffer side effects that require treatment which can be costly.
After treatment, the group added, many patients can have ongoing after effects that need medication and monitoring. Most breast cancer survivors are also on some type of hormone therapy to prevent recurrence, the costs of which also add up.
Without a medical card or health insurance, there are also significant costs for breast replacement prosthetics and specialised bras, the group explained – adding that a prosthesis can cost up to €200, with costs around €70 on average for a bra.
“Breast cancer patients should not have to choose between their health and their financial stability. A medical card would provide vital support, allowing patients to focus on healing without the added stress of medical bills,” said Amanda Jordan, PRO of Limerick Dragons and Breast Cancer survivor.
Limerick Dragons held a lobbying morning at No. 1 Pery Square for politicians, where members of the dragon communities nationally and fellow breast cancer survivors had a chance to voice their concerns.
“Please help us to support our fellow breast cancer patients to avoid the financial burden of paying for wigs, medications, and specialised bras and in some cases, prosthesis. It’s shameful that women are being treated like this at their most vulnerable” was the message from Vidette Ryan Molyneaux, Chairperson of Limerick Dragons and Breast Cancer survivor.
