Paige O'Shea

Paige O'Shea

My name is Paige O'Shea, I'm 18 and became a member of CanTeen when I was 13 years old and was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2005.   

I underwent brain surgery within days of it being discovered to remove the tumour, then had 30 days of radiation therapy followed by an aggressive course of chemotherapy. Undergoing this treatment was one of the hardest things I had ever experienced made worse by having to watch my family also struggle through my illness.

This was when CanTeen stepped in for me. It meant a lot to be surrounded by people who understood what I was going through and didn't judge me or look at me blankly when I tried to explain what cancer was doing to me. The people at CanTeen were the only people who knew exactly what was going on for me as they had all been there done that, that was the biggest gift they could ever give me.

The after effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy put me at my lowest point and CanTeen was there every step of the way encouraging me to get me back on my feet. This is why I have taken on the role of Branch president so I can support other young people experiencing similar difficulties and encourage them to remain positive and look forward. I don't know if I would be where I am without CanTeen I am hoping you will read my story and help me to ensure that no young person ever feels alone when they are experiencing cancer.