Ireland Rugby Backs Shannon Ikahihifo After Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Shannon Ikahihifo, a New Zealand-born rugby player with three caps for Ireland, has been diagnosed with breast cancer shortly before the Women's Rugby World Cup. Ikahihifo, who was part of the pre-tournament training squad but not the final team, shared the news on Instagram, expressing shock but gratitude for her supportive family and friends. Ireland co-captain Edel McMahon praised Ikahihifo's bravery in publicly revealing her diagnosis and emphasized the team's full support while respecting her privacy. McMahon highlighted Ikahihifo's selflessness in not wanting her diagnosis to overshadow the ongoing rugby campaign and Breast Cancer Awareness efforts. The Irish squad has rallied around Ikahihifo, showing solidarity with gestures such as giving her a supportive cake. Ikahihifo also encouraged women to perform regular self-checks as a preventive measure against breast cancer.