'Her legacy will continue to inspire us': Tributes paid to bowel cancer campaigner Niamh Conroy

Niamh Conroy: Bowel Cancer Ireland said: 'Niamh’s legacy is one of action and empathy. She helped countless people feel seen, supported, and informed at some of the most difficult moments of their lives.' Picture: Gareth Chaney

Bowel cancer campaigner Niamh Conroy left a legacy of “action and empathy” which advocates and researchers have pledged to continue after her untimely death. 

The mother of four was diagnosed in 2022 at just 44 with stage 4 rectal cancer that had spread to her liver.

She campaigned for bowel cancer screening to be open for younger people. Coincidentally, the minimum age for getting screening was 59 until the November 3, the day she died, when it was reduced to 58. The HSE plans to continue down to 55.

“It is beyond devastating to see this happen, this is the reality of our disease,” she told the Irish Examiner last year when three of her co-founders at Bowel Cancer Ireland had died.

She called for better funding for the national cancer strategy, saying before the election: “It would be nice to see whatever incoming government we have look at being pro-active, and not fire-fighting.” 

Bowel Cancer Ireland said: “Niamh’s legacy is one of action and empathy. She helped countless people feel seen, supported, and informed at some of the most difficult moments of their lives.” 

It said her example would shape how it worked for reforms.

“As we remember Niamh, we want to honour her life’s mission,” it said. “In her name, we’re calling for greater awareness and access to early testing for bowel cancer.” 

She also co-founded cancer advocacy group UCAN Ireland, which said: “Her energy, positivity, and powerful voice will be profoundly missed. Niamh’s legacy will continue to inspire us as we carry on the important work she championed.

“Our thoughts are with her husband Gearóid, her children, family, and friends during this difficult time.” 

Emer Mulvaney at Cancer Trials Ireland said Ms Conroy joined its patient consultant committee this year.

“She challenged us to think bigger, to do more, and to never lose sight of the people behind the research,” she said. “Niamh’s courage and compassion will continue to guide and inspire the work of the [committee].”