IANO Podcast

In this energising and hope-filled episode of the IANO Podcast, hosts Ada Kinneally and Sheilah Broderick speak with Dr. Emer Guinan, Associate Professor in Cancer Rehabilitation and Survivorship at Trinity College Dublin and Madeline Harney, PhD researcher at South East Technological University Waterford to explore the role of exercise in cancer recovery. Together they discuss how personalised exercise programmes — like those delivered by PERCS (Personalised Exercise Rehabilitation in Cancer Survivorship) — support patients to rebuild strength, confidence and independence throughout and after treatment. The conversation shines a light on emerging research around restoring physical autonomy, including experiences of people recovering from brain tumours and the importance of including all patient voices — even those traditionally under-represented in research. This episode explores:- What PERCS offers and how personalised exercise supports recovery.- The concept of physical autonomy after cancer and real patient experiences.- Fatigue, treatment effects and emotional challenges during rehabilitation.- Evidence-based exercise approaches & safety considerations.- The role of nurses in recognising needs and signposting patients.- How multidisciplinary and community-based programmes enhance outcomes.- The future of exercise oncology and survivorship research in Ireland.With practical tips, compassionate discussion and inspiring patient-centred thinking, this episode highlights exercise as a powerful, accessible tool in cancer recovery — and underscores the vital role nurses play in supporting and advocating for rehabilitation pathways.Episode links:PERCS website: www.cancerrehabilitation.ieCHALLENGE trial publication: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2502760Bone Metastases and Exercise Hub: https://cancerexercise.med.ubc.ca/bmehub/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/madeline-harneyhttps://www.exwell.ie/https://www.sportireland.ie/participation/local-sports-partnerships

In this empowering episode of the IANO Podcast, hosts Sheilah Broderick and Ada Kinneally sit down with Sarah Tighe from the Irish Cancer Society and Terry Hanan from the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) to demystify the world of nursing research funding in Ireland.Whether you're a nurse curious about research, considering applying for your first grant or already developing a project idea, this episode offers clear guidance and encouragement. Sarah and Terry explain what funding pathways exist for nurses, how to prepare a strong application and why nurse-led research is essential for advancing cancer care and improving patient outcomes.This episode explores:- Why nursing research matters — and why nurses are uniquely placed to lead it.- Funding opportunities for nurses through the Irish Cancer Society & NCCP.- Practical strategies for turning clinical questions into research projects.- Tips for writing successful applications & common pitfalls to avoid.- How to seek mentorship, collaborations and institutional support.- Balancing research with clinical commitments — real-world examples.Packed with insight, practical advice and inspiration this conversation highlights how every oncology nurse has the potential to drive innovation and change through research.Episode links:Irish Cancer Society Website (General)- www.cancer.ieIrish Cancer Society Research (Open Calls)- https://www.cancer.ie/researchers-hub/open-funding-callsIrish Cancer Society Research (Mailing List)- https://www.cancer.ie/sign-up-to-our- research-newsletterhttps://evidencesynthesisireland.ie/training/https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/

In this heartfelt and informative episode of the IANO Podcast series, hosts Sheilah Broderick and Ada Kinneally sit down with Laura Cullinan, CEO of Childhood Cancer Ireland and Dr. Mairead Brennan, Principal Clinical Psychologist and Director of Psychosocial Services, to explore the realities of childhood cancer and the supports available for families across Ireland.Through Laura’s personal lived experience as a parent of a childhood cancer survivor and her leadership within the charity sector, paired with Dr. Brennan’s clinical expertise in childhood psycho-oncology, this conversation brings together powerful perspectives on what children, parents and siblings need throughout and beyond treatment.This episode covers:- The mission and programmes of Childhood Cancer Ireland.- The emotional and practical impact of childhood cancer on families.- Psychological needs of children at different stages of illness and survivorship.- The role of nurses in compassionate communication and patient-family support.- How hospitals, nurses and charities can work together to improve care.- Emerging priorities for support services and advocacy.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by families navigating childhood cancer, as well as practical insights on how healthcare professionals - particularly oncology nurses — can provide sensitive, holistic support and guide families to appropriate resources.Episode links:http://www.childhoodcancer.ie/

Join IANO Podcast hosts Sheilah Broderick and Ada Kinneally as they speak with Abby Kelly, Fertility Nurse Specialist to explore fertility preservation for children, adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer — an area where clinical complexities meet profoundly personal decision-making.Abby shares her expertise on the fertility risks associated with cancer treatment, the options currently available in Ireland and the realities of accessing timely support at diagnosis. She also highlights the vital role oncology nurses play in initiating conversations early, providing compassionate guidance and advocating for referral pathways that protect future reproductive choices.This episode explores:- Fertility preservation options for male and female CAYA patients.- Timelines, eligibility and coordination at the point of cancer diagnosis.- Sensitive communication strategies for patients and families.- Overcoming barriers to fertility discussions in oncology settings.- The role of multidisciplinary teamwork and psychosocial support.- Emerging issues, including surrogacy considerations in Ireland.With practical guidance and thoughtful reflection, Abby emphasises the importance of proactive, supportive fertility discussions — ensuring young people facing cancer can make informed decisions about their future fertility options.Episode links:www.merrionfertility.ie

In this episode, hosts Ada Kinneally and Sheilah Broderick are joined by Dr. Patricia Fox (UCD) and Elaine Buckley (Tobacco Free Ireland) to explore how oncology nurses can meaningfully support patients to stop smoking during and after a cancer diagnosis.Together, they unpack:- Key research on smoking cessation among cancer survivors- Patient-reported barriers, motivators and lived experiences- How to have compassionate, non-judgemental “quit” conversations- Practical tools, services and national supports available in Ireland- The crucial role nurses play in making smoking cessation routine in cancer careWhether you're working at the bedside, in ambulatory cancer services or in the community, this episode offers evidence-based insights, patient-centred strategies and tangible takeaways to enhance oncology nursing practice — and ultimately improve patient outcomes.Episode links:www.gov.ie/en/publication/4828b-stop-smokingwww.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/making-every-contact-countwww.hse.ie/eng/about/who/tobaccocontrol/resourceswww.hse.ie/eng/about/who/tobaccocontrol/resources/stop-smoking-medicationsFox, P., Bhardwaj, N., Lyons, A., Niranjan, V., Frazer, K., Syed, S., McCann, A., Brennan, S.,Brennan, D., Kelly, C., Keane, M., & Fitzpatrick, P. (2024). Smoking Cessation Support: AMarathon, Not a Sprint; The Perspectives of Cancer Patients Who Smoke. Seminars in oncology nursing, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soncn.2024.151584 Fitzpatrick, P., Bhardwaj, N., Masalkhi, M., Lyons, A., Frazer, K., McCann, A., Syed, S., Niranjan, V., Kelleher, C. C., Brennan, S., Kavanagh, P., & Fox, P. (2023). Provision of smoking cessation support for patients following a diagnosis of cancer in Ireland. Preventive medicine reports, 32, 102158. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102158.Lyons, A., Bhardwaj, N., Masalkhi, M., Fox, P., Frazer, K., McCann, A., Syed, S., Niranjan, V., Kelleher, C. C., Kavanagh, P., & Fitzpatrick, P. (2023). Specialist cancer hospital-based smoking cessation service provision in Ireland. Irish journal of medical science, 10.1007/s11845-023-03525-0. Advance onlinepublication.https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-023-03525-0.

In this inspiring episode of the IANO Podcast, hosts Ada Kinneally and Sheilah Broderick sit down with Caitriona Duggan, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Oncology at Portiuncula University Hospital and PhD Candidate at the University of Galway — and former President of IANO.Caitriona shares her personal and professional journey into doctoral research, offering an honest and encouraging insight into what it’s really like to pursue a PhD while working in oncology nursing. From shaping a meaningful research question to securing funding, balancing clinical practice with academic commitments and navigating the highs and challenges along the way, this conversation is packed with wisdom, real-world advice and motivation.Together, we explore:- What inspired Caitriona to pursue a PhD- Practical steps for developing a research idea and applying for funding- Balancing academic and clinical responsibilities- The role of mentorship, leadership and community in research- How research builds confidence, opportunity and professional growth- Advice for nurses feeling curious — but unsure where to startWhether you're actively considering a PhD, exploring research pathways or simply curious about the academic side of oncology nursing, this episode offers guidance, encouragement and practical takeaways from someone who has walked the journey.Episode links:www.iano.iewww.cancernurse.eu

In this episode of the IANO Podcast, hosts Ada Kinneally and Sheilah Broderick sit down with Donna Phelan, CEO of Community Cancer Caregivers to explore how compassionate, community-based support can make a profound difference in the lives of people living with and beyond cancer.Donna shares the story behind the charity, the vision that drives their work and the unique ways the organisation works alongside patients and families throughout their cancer journey — offering practical help, emotional support and a reassuring presence when it’s needed most.The conversation highlights:- The evolving needs of patients and caregivers in the community.- The power of person-centred, non-clinical support in recovery and resilience.- How oncology nurses can link patients with community services.- The importance of collaboration across hospitals, charities and local supports.- Future goals to expand outreach and impact across Ireland.This episode offers nurses valuable insight into how local initiatives can complement clinical care — ensuring patients and families feel supported not only in treatment settings, but also at home and within their communities.Episode links:   www.communitycancercaregivers.com

Hereditary predisposition to cancer has such relevance in cancer prevention and surveillance but also in terms of patient cancer treatments, their response to treatment and indeed their families.  Join Michael Farrell as he discusses with Sheilah insights into the ever evolving topic of cancer genetics. Michael has been working in clinical cancer genetics for almost 20 years and is the CNS in Cancer Genetics at the Mater Private Hospital working with Professor David Gallagher. Prior to this, he worked as a Research Nurse in Cancer Genetics with Professor Peter Daly where he gained his Masters in Molecular Medicine from TCD. Michael has given oral presentations at both National and International cancer conferences and is first author on 2 papers in the journal of Familial Cancer. He has presented talks on various aspects of inherited predisposition to cancer to health care professionals, patient support groups and also supervises clinical teaching for graduate nursing and science students on various aspects of cancer genetics.  Links mentioned in the podcast https://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information-and-support/cancer-information/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/cancer-and-genes https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/profinfo/hereditary-cancer-genetics/ https://www.cancer.ie/about-us/news/cancer-genetic-services-in-an-irish-context https://engage.esgo.org/brochures/genetic-testing/

Cancer Genetics Hereditary predisposition to cancer has such relevance in cancer prevention and surveillance but also in terms of patient cancer treatments, their response to treatment and indeed their families.  Join Michael Farrell as he discusses with Sheilah insights into the ever evolving topic of cancer genetics. Michael has been working in clinical cancer genetics for almost 20 years and is the CNS in Cancer Genetics at the Mater Private Hospital working with Professor David Gallagher. Prior to this, he worked as a Research Nurse in Cancer Genetics with Professor Peter Daly where he gained his Masters in Molecular Medicine from TCD. Michael has given oral presentations at both National and International cancer conferences and is first author on 2 papers in the journal of Familial Cancer. He has presented talks on various aspects of inherited predisposition to cancer to health care professionals, patient support groups and also supervises clinical teaching for graduate nursing and science students on various aspects of cancer genetics.   Links mentioned in the podcast https://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information-and-support/cancer-information/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/cancer-and-genes https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/profinfo/hereditary-cancer-genetics/ https://www.cancer.ie/about-us/news/cancer-genetic-services-in-an-irish-context https://engage.esgo.org/brochures/genetic-testing/

In this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by John Mitchell and Siobhan Kavanagh from Barrettstown Camp, an extraordinary place that offers life-changing experiences for children with serious illnesses and their families. John and Siobhan share the incredible work that takes place in the camp, from emotional healing to building resilience, and how its programs give children back a piece of their childhood that illness may have taken away.  For nurses & healthcare professionals, this episode will help you to explain what the camp offers but also, explore the nursing role and opportunities outside of the hospital setting. Tune in to discover how Barrettstown is making a difference, one adventure at a time. Links mentioned in the podcast https://barretstown.org/

Join us as we discuss The Marie Keating Foundation (MKF) with Helen Forristal, Director of Nursing Services and Aine Murphy, a member of the POSITIVE LIVING group.  Learn how the MKF can be an invaluable tool for nurses when supporting patients, their families, and the public. Whether you're a nurse working directly in oncology or in a broader healthcare setting, this episode will provide practical insights on how you can leverage the Marie Keating Foundation to enhance patient care and community outreach.  Links mentioned in the podcast www.mariekeating.ie

Join us as we discuss The Marie Keating Foundation (MKF) with Helen Forristal, Director of Nursing Services.  Learn how the MKF can be an invaluable tool for nurses when supporting patients, their families, and the public. Whether you're a nurse working directly in oncology or in a broader healthcare setting, this episode will provide practical insights on how you can leverage the Marie Keating Foundation to enhance patient care and community outreach.  Links mentioned in the podcast www.mariekeating.ie

In this powerful episode, we explore the unique challenges and triumphs of cancer survivorship in adolescents and young adults (AYA) with Niamh O'Sullivan, Assistant Director of Nursing and a key member of the AYA multidisciplinary team (MDT) at CHI Crumlin and St. James Hospital in Dublin. With her extensive experience, Niamh sheds light on the emotional, social, and medical hurdles faced by young cancer survivors as they transition from active treatment to survivorship. Links mentioned in the podcast Links to multiple related websites: https://linktr.ee/aya_cancer_ireland?ltsid=06147dcf-e549-4721-ab5e-9e7b19f7b8a3 Website link to AYA Referral Form: https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/about/nccp-children-adolescent-young-adult-caya-cancer-programme/development-of-a-national-adolescent-and-young-adult-aya-cancer-multi-disciplinary-meeting-mdm-.html

In this episode, we sit down with Niamh O’Sullivan, Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) for Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) to explore the vital role of a specialist AYA multidisciplinary team in the care and support of young people. Niamh shares her insights on how healthcare professionals across all cancer care disciplines come together to address the complex needs of adolescents and young adults during a cancer diagnosis, treatment and beyond. Whether you're a cancer nurse or not, or just a  healthcare professional interested in learning more, this episode offers a deep dive into the workings of AYA multidisciplinary care in Ireland. Links mentioned in the podcast Links to multiple related websites: ⁠https://linktr.ee/aya_cancer_ireland?ltsid=06147dcf-e549-4721-ab5e-9e7b19f7b8a3⁠ Website link to AYA Referral Form: https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/about/nccp-children-adolescent-young-adult-caya-cancer-programme/development-of-a-national-adolescent-and-young-adult-aya-cancer-multi-disciplinary-meeting-mdm-.html

Migrant groups in Ireland face many obstacles which impact them in terms of their health care. Ada and Sheilah are joined by Dr PJ Boyle DProf. (Health), M.A. (Dev. St.), RCN, RGN Clinical Nurse Specialist (Asylum Seekers' Health Assessment) and Dawn O Higgins Senior Medical Social Worker, Mater Hospital. Listen as we explore how nurses can be more prepared and informed to care for patients from different cultural backgrounds. Resources mentioned in the episode: Resource List:   Inclusion Health Nursing (Ireland) https://www.inmo.ie/Professional-Development/Professional-sections/Inclusion-Health-Section https://www.nursesandmidwivesforinclusionhealth.com/   Transcultural Nursing & Cultural Competence Development: https://europeantransculturalnurses.eu/ https://tcns.org/ https://www.icn.ch/ International Council of Nurses – Position Statement on Health of Migrants, Refugees and Displaced People. https://www.icn.ch/sites/default/files/2023-04/PS_A_Health_migrants_refugees_displaced%20persons_0.pdf   CLAS (Cultural Linguistic Appropriate Services) https://thinkculturalhealth.hhs.gov/clas https://www.culturallyconnected.ca/   Migrant Health / Inclusion Health Article: https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-019-6651-2 https://healthallianceni.com/health-social-wellbeing/bme-groups/ https://www.healthequity.ie/ https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/primarycare/socialinclusion/about-social-inclusion/

Fear is one of the most common reactions for patients diagnosed with advanced cancer. Join us as Dr Sinead Lynch, Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist working in Psycho Oncology at the Mater Hospital talks to Sheilah and explores how nurses can support their patients with this fear. Listen as she provides valuable insights into the importance of nurses practicing self-care in order to cope with the demands of this difficult role. Resources mentioned in the episode: Self-Care workbook here https://www.stress.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Self-care-Workbook.pdf​ Tara Brach R.A.I.N https://www.tarabrach.com/rain/ Kristen Neff Self-Compassion https://self-compassion.org/self-compassion-practices/   The Three R's - Regulate, Relate, Reason - Read more by Dr Bruce Perry ''What Happened to You?" (https://www.amazon.co.uk/What-Happened-You/ The Triple A (Allow, Acknowledge, Appreciate) the mantra from one of Sinead Lynch's patients. People can be directed to Mater Wellbeing site for relaxation audio here https://www.mater.ie/services/psychology/wellbeing-centre/ and one by Sinead called 'Sitting with Uncertainty' here https://soundcloud.com/user-317971844/sitting-with-uncertainty-dr-sinead-lynchBooks to educate yourself on death and dying;  C.S. Lewis 'A Grief Observed'   Elisabeth Kubler Ross,  author of the internationally best-selling book, On Death and Dying, where she first discussed her theory of the five stages of grief ~ ''On Death and Dying"   Katheryn Mannix – palliative care consultant – YouTube video ‘’What Happens When We Die?” and book ‘With The End In Mind’   Man’s Search for Meaning  - Vicktor Frankl   Staring at the Son – Irvin Yalom   On Being Mortal - Atul Kawande   Paper Dolls – By Julia Donaldson (Children’s Book)   Short animated movie about illness and loss called Blush on Apple TV   Mary Poppins 2 song ‘Where the Lost Things Go’  

Psychological distress caused by a cancer diagnosis is recognised as a major influence on quality of life and wellbeing for patients and their families. Ada is joined by Gerd Murphy, RANP in Psycho-Oncology to discuss the necessity for a comprehensive psychosocial support & services throughout cancer experience.  Gerd highlights how nurses can offer ward based discussions with patients in distress who are  adjusting to a cancer diagnosis but also how to address more complex trauma informed responses.  She discusses the Hospital and Community-based Psychosocial Care for Patients with Cancer and their Families: A Model of Care for Psycho-Oncology & the various supports available to patients & their families. Resources: https://www.nccn.org/patients/guidelines/content/PDF/distress-patient.pdf https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/profinfo/psycho-oncology-programme/model%20of%20care.pdf https://www.hseland.ie/ekp/servlet/ekp?PX=N&TEACHREVIEW=N&PTX=&CID=EKP000010832&TX=FORMAT1&LANGUAGE_TAG=0&DECORATEPAGE=N https://cora.ucc.ie/server/api/core/bitstreams/50c501d1-4447-4787-bee7-7254ed018f98/content

In this episode we continue our discussion about menopause after cancer. We discuss symptoms of menopause and how we can more effectively support our patients. We are joined by Ada Kinneally (Advanced Nurse Practitioner in  Oncology), Sheilah Broderick (Gynaecology CNS) Liz Meade (Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Oncology), Clare  McIlroy (CNM2, National Maternity Hospital) and Fionan Donohoe (SpR  Obstetrics and Gynaecology). For more information on the IANO please visit https://www.iano.ie References mentioned in the episode: • NCCP booklet on bone health (https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:2094ed20-fe57-399f-9d98-f00cccc96be6) • thisisgo.ie • www.balance-menopause.com • www.menopausematters.co.uk • www.womens-health-concern.org • www.cancer.ie • www.menopause.org • www.exwell.ie • mymenoplan.org • www.hse.ie Early menopause advice • www.cancer.ie/thrivingandsurviving • www.surviveandthrive.ie • www.mariekeating.ie Sleep Booklet: https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:7c2b47e8-eded-3aed-a149-e5ff18da784d National Cancer Control Programme E: info@cancercontrol.ie Cancer Nurse Helpline: 1800 200 700 The Life and Cancer – Enhancing Survivorship (LACES) workshop is for adult patients who have finished their active cancer treatment and are beginning their long-term follow up. This includes patients who are post-surgery, radiation therapy, the acute phase of their chemotherapy treatment and patients with advanced cancer, who have discontinued treatment or who are on ongoing treatment. The workshop allows patients to access appropriate information and signposting to improve their quality of life after cancer. The focus is on health and well-being, enhancing the use of community supports and survivorship programmes. Delivering workshops using online platforms, commenced in June 2021. If you are a patient and wish to join any such session, or a health care professional wishing to refer a patient, please contact daffodilcentreinfo@irishcancer.ie

In Episode 1 of our podcast we have an informational discussion surrounding menopause after cancer, HRT and some myths regarding this topic. We are joined by Ada Kinneally (Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Oncology), Liz Meade (Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Oncology), Clare McIlroy (CNM2, National Maternity Hospital) and Fionan Donohoe (SpR Obstetrics and Gynaecology). For more information on the IANO please visit https://www.iano.ie References mentioned in the episode: https://www.womens-health-concern.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/WHC-UnderstandingRisksofBreastCancer-MARCH2017.pdf https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11845-022-02947-6.pdf • thisisgo.ie • www.balance-menopause.com • www.menopausematters.co.uk • www.womens-health-concern.org • www.cancer.ie • www.menopause.org • www.exwell.ie • mymenoplan.org • www.hse.ie Early menopause advice

Cancer survivors represents almost 4% of the population in Ireland at present. The number of survivors is predicted to double over the next 25 years. Ada & Catherine O’Brien, RANP in Cancer Survivorship discuss the concept of cancer survivorship care, how nurses can prepare & support cancer survivors throughout the entire cancer experience and beyond, the specialist hospital & community based services available in Ireland & how nurses can develop their own professional knowledge in the area of cancer survivorship. Resources: Irish Cancer Society LACES programme https://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information-and-support/cancer-support/survivorship-education-laces Irish Cancer Society Survivorship conference https://www.cancer.ie/LivingWell NCCP website for Cancer Survivorship with a number of useful programmes https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/profinfo/survivorship-programme/ NCCP National Cancer Survivorship Needs Assessment https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/profinfo/survivorship-programme/needs%20assessment.html Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Survivorship website https://www.mskcc.org/experience/living-beyond-cancer/survivorship/adult-survivorship Trinity College Dublin MSc Cancer Survivorship https://www.tcd.ie/courses/postgraduate/courses/cancer-survivorship-msc--pgraddip--pgradcert/ Cancer Survivorship Masterclass www.healthcareconferencesuk.co.uk/conferences-masterclasses/cancer-survivorship