Health Diaries > The Lung Cancer Blog

May 13, 2008

Author Nuala O'Faolain Dies of Lung Cancer

Irish author Nuala O'Faolain has died of lung cancer in Dublin at the age of 68. O'Faolain was the author of the memoir "Are You Somebody?" and was an outspoken journalist and feminist.

Just a few weeks ago she announced her illness and gave an interview with state radio RTE. She said the cancer had spread to her liver and brain. During the interview she also said she didn't believe in an afterlife.

"I can't be consoled by the mention of God. I wish everyone comfort for those who believe, but I cannot. To me it's meaningless."

She also said she could no longer concentrate or enjoy the things she used to.

"Beauty means nothing to me anymore. I tried to read (Marcel) Proust again recently, but it has gone — the magic has gone. It amazed me how quickly my life turned black."

After her diagnosis, she opted not to undergo chemotherapy. Before entering hospice care, she spent her last weeks traveling and visiting with friends.

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