Cork TD was 'facing into cancer diagnosis when the election was called'

A Cork TD has opened up about his own personal health battle and cancer journey over the last six months.

Cork North Central Sinn Féin TD Thomas Gould outlined his bowel cancer diagnosis and his experiences to date of chemotherapy and treatment.

He is now going through chemo as a precaution and commenced treatment in December.

Mr Gould held his seat in the Cork North Central constituency during the most recent General Election and said that, despite his diagnosis, he never considered not contesting.

“In October, I was diagnosed with bowel cancer and had an operation to remove the tumour. That was thankfully very successful and I recovered well from it. I’ve been having chemotherapy fortnightly since they found some cancer cells in my lymph nodes,” Mr Gould said.

“I’ve been able to recover and do most of my treatment at home. I was recovering from my operation and facing into the cancer diagnosis when the election was called. I cannot express enough gratitude for all of those who rallied around me during the election campaign, putting up posters, knocking on doors, handing out leaflets.

“I was really honoured to have such huge support from friends, family and my comrades.

“When I needed help, I didn’t have to ask. They turned up, rain or shine, and myself and my family will never forget their support.”

Mr Gould added: “I’m still holding my clinics every week so I’m meeting people and supporting them in their issues.

“I also still have full access to Ministers’ Questions and my office team have been working non-stop so we’re still helping people in every way we can.

“I’ve good days and bad days. I’ve experienced some nausea and I’ve lost a good bit of weight.

“I’ve been very tired, I normally don’t stop, but I’m having to be mindful of that, and thankfully Michelle and the girls are reminding me to take a rest.”