A wave of heartfelt tributes has followed the passing a beloved Lurgan mother-of-three who died peacefully on Tuesday, aged 41, after a courageous battle with breast cancer.
Roisin Scullion (née Polin), who lived in the Taghnevan area with her husband Declan and their three beloved children Declan, Lyla-Rose and Lainí, became a powerful voice for change in the months leading up to her death, campaigning to lower the age of breast cancer screening in Northern Ireland from 50 to 30.
Diagnosed with stage 3 triple-negative inflammatory breast cancer at 39 – after initially being misdiagnosed – Roisin spoke candidly about the devastating consequences of her late diagnosis, which left her with a 10cm tumour that had already spread to her lymph nodes.
“This could have been avoided if screening started earlier,” she wrote in her widely shared petition. “We must demand change. I don’t want my story to become someone else’s.”
Her petition – which has gathered more than 4,500 signatures – was a testament to her selflessness, even in the face of terminal illness.
“Please, for me, for your sisters, your mothers, your daughters, and your friends – sign this petition,” she wrote. “Together, we can make a difference.”
Despite undergoing months of chemotherapy, a mastectomy and 20 rounds of radiotherapy, the cancer returned. But Roisin continued to fight – not just for her own life, but to try and save the lives of others.
Her family described her as “the most devoted mummy” to her three children, and a loving daughter to Joanie and Michael, as well as a cherished sister, aunt and sister-in-law.
She will repose at her family home at 11 Richmount Gardens on Thursday, with friends and family welcome from 1pm–9pm. Her funeral will take place on Friday, with Requiem Mass at 10am in St Paul’s Church, Lurgan, followed by burial in St Colman’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mandeville Unit via mcalindenandmurtagh.com or the donation box at the home.
Roisin’s passing has had a notable impact on the Lurgan community – and beyond.
“Roisin was a true gentle soul. An absolute legend and warrior,” one tribute read.
Another described her as “the most beautiful girl inside and out – such a fighter,” while others recalled her warmth, humour and strength of character.
“[It] was a pleasure to have known and work with Roisin,” wrote one friend. “You were definitely one of the good ones. Always a laugh and joke when you were around.”
Another posted: “Róisín was a true gentle soul. An absolute legend and warrior. Lived everyday for her wee family. God only chooses the best! She will grace heaven with her presence and her incredible laughter.”
One mourner wrote simply: “She was an inspiration and hopefully will be the catalyst for change in screening age restrictions.”
St Francis’ Primary School – where Roisin’s daughter Lainí is currently in Primary 3 and her older children Declan and Lyla-Rose are past pupils – extended their deepest sympathies.
“The Board of Governors, Principal, staff and pupils deeply regret the death of Roisin Scullion (née Polin). Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the Polin and Scullion family circles. St Francis of Assisi, pray for her. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”
Roisin’s legacy will live on – not only through the family who adored her, but through her tireless efforts to bring about change in cancer screening policy.
She may be gone, but her voice – and her fight – will not be forgotten.
You can continue to sign Roisin’s petition here.
