Co Armagh Sisters Share Breast Cancer Journey to Raise Awareness

Two sisters from Silverbridge, Co Armagh, have been diagnosed with breast cancer within weeks of each other, prompting them to advocate for greater awareness of the disease. Aisling Muckian, 32, was diagnosed with grade 3 BRCA2+ breast cancer on May 27, 2025. Her sister, Áine Mallie, 34, received the same diagnosis just weeks later on July 26, 2025.

Both women, who are mothers of two, have undergone significant medical procedures, including a single mastectomy, reconstruction, and lymph node clearance. They have also started chemotherapy treatments. Their experiences highlight the importance of regular health checks and being vigilant about symptoms.

Aisling shared her journey in an interview with Belfast Live, describing the initial signs of her condition. “I basically was feeling absolutely exhausted,” she explained. This fatigue felt different to her, reminiscent of the exhaustion experienced during early pregnancy. Initially, Aisling attributed her tiredness to the demands of motherhood and a busy lifestyle. She sought to improve her health by engaging in exercise and focusing on her diet, but her symptoms persisted.

In April 2025, Aisling discovered a lump after a shower and promptly contacted her general practitioner (GP). “I emailed my GP that evening because I found it just when I got out of the shower,” she recalled. Although her GP initially dismissed the lump, a referral was made for further investigation.

Aisling’s family history added to her concerns. Her grandmother had passed away from cancer, and while they had not been informed of any genetic implications at the time, Aisling later learned about the significance of the BRCA2 gene, which increases the risk of breast cancer. Following a series of consultations, ultrasounds, and biopsies, she received the diagnosis that changed her life.

On June 27, 2025, Aisling underwent surgery, but the full extent of the procedure was contingent upon receiving genetic test results. They confirmed that both sisters carry the BRCA2 gene, prompting Áine to take immediate action regarding her own health.

Áine found a lump on June 13, 2025, mirroring her sister’s experience. Like Aisling, she had been feeling unusually tired. After Aisling’s diagnosis, Áine proactively sought medical advice and was referred for testing. She received her diagnosis less than six weeks later.

Áine’s surgery took place on August 26, 2025, and she began chemotherapy shortly after on September 30, 2025. Both sisters are now undergoing similar treatment regimens, and they have formed a strong support network through their shared experience.

To raise awareness about breast cancer and encourage others to conduct self-examinations, Aisling and Áine created a social media platform called Silverbridge Sisters. They aim to reach out to young women who may overlook the importance of monitoring their breast health. Aisling emphasized the alarming reality that many people in their early 30s are unaware of how to check for lumps or what symptoms to look for.

“The amount of people that have messaged and said, ‘We’ve just checked ourselves for the first time last night,’” Aisling noted. She added, “It’s just shocking that two sisters from a small village in Armagh have been diagnosed in the same year.”

The sisters have received overwhelming support from their family during this challenging time. Aisling expressed gratitude for their parents and siblings, who have helped care for their children and provided emotional support. “We’ve quite a big family, and they are just picking up the children whenever we need, running around for us,” she said.

As they continue their treatment, Aisling and Áine remain committed to using their story to inspire awareness and encourage early detection of breast cancer. You can follow their journey on TikTok and Instagram under the handle Silverbridge Sisters, where they share insights and resources about breast health.

For more information on breast cancer awareness and resources, visit reputable health organizations or consult your healthcare provider.