Tarmac Online

By: Daniel Graziose ’27

Every October, communities across the nation come together in strength, hope, unity, and—most importantly—love for those fighting breast cancer. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, led by the American Cancer Society, is more than a walk; it is a movement that honors survivors, remembers those we’ve lost, and raises vital funds for research and support. Simply put: nobody deserves to face this battle alone.

October is recognized worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to promoting early detection, supporting patients, and advancing research. The color pink and its iconic ribbon serve as a universal reminder of the fight and the need for education and solidarity. The month was established when national advocacy campaigns united to bring much-needed attention to the cause.

Here on Long Island, one of the largest awareness events takes place each year at Jones Beach: the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. In the early morning, thousands gather to celebrate survivors, support patients, and fund lifesaving programs. Every step represents hope—hope for earlier detection, better treatments, and ultimately, a cure. It’s not a race, but a movement of compassion and unity, reminding us that no one fights alone.

Following this year’s walk, I had the privilege of interviewing Mairead Ryan, a true example of resilience and strength. At just eight years old, she heard the words no one ever wants to hear: she had cancer. What began as an ordinary fall that injured her left radius while playing basketball led to multiple tests and biopsies. After an initial negative result and a suspected infection, a second biopsy confirmed the unimaginable. Thankfully, she beat it.

On February 12, 2024, when Mairead was 26, she received devastating news once again—she had been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Even after facing cancer for the second time, she refuses to let it define her. Mairead continues to live life to the fullest, inspiring others through her courage, positivity, and determination.

The following includes the questions and answers from the interview I conducted on behalf of Tarmac:

Tarmac: What motivates you to keep going every day, even when things get difficult?

Mairead: You have to surround yourself with people you love and a caring support system that is there for you. It gets easy to get in your own head and be down, but if you surround yourself with loving people, it makes the difficult times easier.

Tarmac: What advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed or is going through a similar experience right now?

Mairead: The biggest thing is to be your own advocate and speak up for yourself. Always take time for yourself and be open to saying “yes” to different experiences. Take time for yourself, to enjoy the moments that are special, even when it may not seem like it. Make the most of what you have and lean on support, especially your family and friends.

Tarmac: What would you say to the caregivers—friends and family—who support those going through the same journey?

Mairead: The most important thing is to be fully present. It’s not so much about the perfect words. Don’t be afraid of saying the wrong thing—just showing up, going to treatment, or spending quality time matters most.

Tarmac: What inspires you to raise awareness and give back?

Mairead: Having stage 4 metastatic breast cancer is a big deal because there is no cure. It’s important to raise awareness and funds, not only for myself but for so many others in this situation. For example, donations of little amounts can provide rides to treatment or even hotel stays for families. Big or small, every contribution makes a difference.

Tarmac: What message do you hope people take away from your efforts?

Mairead: Awareness and funding truly matter. If it is important to you, it is just as important to someone else. Always raise your voice for what you believe in.

Tarmac: When did you know you wanted to become a pediatric oncology nurse?

Mairead: After having cancer the first time, I wanted to become a pediatric oncology nurse on the same floor where I was treated. I was inspired by the doctors and nurses who were my biggest champions, and I wanted to be that champion for someone else.

Mairead is truly an inspiration because of her courage and positivity. In just two years, she has independently raised over $75,000 for research and awareness. She is not just a cancer survivor—Mairead Ryan is a cancer thriver.