Shape I’m In: Majella O’Donnell

Majella O’Donnell is still catching up with herself. First there was the shock of the breast cancer diagnosis in 2013. 

Then, just after her first session of chemotherapy, came the very public response: to shave her hair for charity on The Late Late Show. The live event received a standing ovation from the audience and raised a stunning €600,000 for the Irish Cancer Society.

It was a turning point. Largely known up until then as the wife of the famous crooner Daniel, her brave gesture showed her grit and grace under pressure.

“My life has completely changed in the last year. From just being known, to doing the head shave and the response that it got; being approached to write the book, actually even writing the book, then being nominated for an award (‘John Murray Show Listeners’ Choice Award’) and then winning it. It’s just crazy,” says the 54-year-old.

In It’s All in the Head (Simon & Schuster) Majella talks about her post-natal depression — she has two children Siobhan, 27 and Michael 24, from a previous marriage — and the dark days she experienced. Recovery took time and effort.

“I learnt a lot about myself. I went to psychologists, psychiatrists, read a lot of self- help books and became a much more positive person and learnt to take responsibility for my own situation rather than blaming other people,” she says.

Her openness has struck a chord with readers. “I’ve heard of stories recently of people saying what Majella O’Donnell said helped me — I find that hugely humbling and hugely rewarding.

“To me, if I was to die tomorrow I think the one thing I would like to know is that I have made a difference to somebody’s life. That I haven’t just been in this world on the sidelines; no body has noticed me and that I disappeared.”

Given her determined honesty and gift for communication, there is little chance of Majella O’Donnell being left on the sidelines.

What shape are you in?

I’m in terrible shape. I’m unfit. I’ve put weight on — I don’t know whether that is down to hormone treatment or whatever— I suspect it is, or I like to use that as an excuse anyway! I’ve said to myself that in the new year I am going to start yoga. I have a lot of creaks and aches and pains in my bones.

Do you have any health concerns?

I am very aware because in the first few years after having cancer you are most likely to have a re-occurrence. So things I would have dismissed in the past I am now looking into straight away. I need to be mindful of any changes in my body.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

I love sugary doughnuts and I’m terrible for pastry, cakes and biscuits.

What would keep you awake at night?

Very little. I sleep like a demon. I need about ten hours a night — that ties in with the depression as well. Jet lag is the only thing that would keep me awake.

How do you relax?

Watching mindless TV like Coronation Street, Eastenders. It’s just something you can turn on and you’re lost in that for a while.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Graham Norton, Emma Hannigan — she is such a positive person— Ryan Tubbridy, because he is mad and he’s great fun.

What’s your favourite smell?

Longiforum lilies and Givenchy Gentleman, because it smells like my husband. He wears it all the time.

What would you change about your appearance?

Pre-cancer, I would have listed off tons of things. Post cancer, I kind of think my old body has held up well — but, even so, I’d like a new pair of legs. My thighs are enormous; I’m okay from below the knee but from the knee up — shocking!

When did you last cry?

When I looked at a photograph of my father a few weeks ago. He is only dead a year. We were very close in the end.

What trait do you least like in others?

Negativity — 100%. Negative people sap my energy.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

I’m extremely impatient.

Do you pray?

Yes. But not in the ‘Hail Mary’, ‘Our Father’ way. I talk to God and I thank him a lot. I try not to talk to Him when I want things.

What would cheer up your day?

My children phoning and telling me they love me. And when the sun is shining.