Mother's Day: 'Everybody always tells me to look after myself and I do because, if I don’t, I won’t be able to look after anyone at all'

A Cork cardiologist has issued a plea to women this Mother’s Day, saying the best present a mum can give herself is “the gift of health”.

Dr John Foran, who leads the cardiac care team at the Mater Private Hospital, is urging women over 50 years old to prioritise their heart health, as cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women in Ireland.

“Too often, women put the needs of their families before their own wellbeing,” said Dr Foran.

“This Mother’s Day, I encourage every woman to take a moment for herself — to check in on her heart health, recognise potential symptoms, and take action towards prevention.

“Being there for your family starts with taking care of yourself.

“Let’s shift the focus from giving gifts to giving the gift of health and awareness — encourage the mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and sisters in your life to prioritise their wellbeing.”

Dr Foran further said that many women may be unaware of the risks of heart disease as they enter menopause — it rises significantly due to the loss of protective oestrogen. This hormonal decline can lead to higher cholesterol levels, increased blood pressure, and a greater likelihood of developing heart disease.

Women have smaller hearts and narrower arteries, making them more vulnerable to microvascular disease. Women also present subtle, atypical symptoms and may not experience crushing chest pain during a heart attack like men.

Many women experience symptoms when resting or even asleep, making early detection harder, with emotional stress also being a major contributor to heart attacks in females. Symptoms in women can include unexplained fatigue; shortness of breath; nausea or indigestion; back, jaw, or neck pain; and dizziness.

Speaking to The Echo, mother and grandmother Caitriona Twomey, of Cork Penny Dinners, who has previously suffered a stroke, said: “Heart health is very important — your health is your wealth.

“I take medication for my heart and I’m also a diabetic. I have a team in the Mercy [hospital] that pulls out all the stops for me.

“For Mother’s Day years ago, my children got me a trip to Rome and I told them I nearly had a stroke when I saw them all coming but, two weeks later, I did have one.

“I was very lucky. I had a truly remarkable team — I owe my life to them. Don’t leave yourself to chance, go get yourself checked out.

“Mother’s Day is very special to me. It’s the gift that goes on. As a mother and a grandmother, as many times as I can, for as long as I’m alive, I’ll celebrate it.

“Everybody always tells me to look after myself and I do because, if I don’t, I won’t be able to look after anyone at all, and I love looking after people.

“I would also like to wish a happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers, aunts, and godmothers at Penny Dinners.”