A former Garda, who served for many years in Monaghan is sharing his story for oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month.
Paul Hargadon served as a member of An Garda Siochana for 35 years, and spent many of those working in Monaghan.
He retired in 2010 and was the the Chief Superintendent of the Roscommon – Longford Garda division.
In autumn 2024 Paul began to feel out of sorts, suffering persistent heartburn and unintentional weightloss.
Due to his family history Paul had been getting regular health checks and he checked out the symptoms he was experiencing and it led to him receiving a timely diagnosis of oesophageal cancer.
He underwent treatment and faced various setbacks including double pneumonia, but has since recovered.
He credited the support of his wife and children and the dedicated medical teams with his recovery.
Paul urges people to pay attention to symptoms and to seek early medical checks.
Speaking on the Joe Finnegan show this morning, Paul says he’s sharing his story so other’s stay vigilant and hopeful.
He spoke about the importance of the mental side of recovery.