Author and mum Emma reveals she is losing cancer battle

The mum of two teenagers had "the conversation I never wanted to have with my medical team" several days ago.

The Wicklow native took to her Facebook page yesterday by posting: "All good things must come to an end. The time that I knew was borrowed must be given back soon, so it seems.

"The conversation I never wanted to have has been said.

"My medical team have thrown everything but the kitchen sink at this fight but all avenues have now been exhausted."

The 45-year-old explained that the love of her family, friends and fans have sustained her throughout her battle.

In 2005, she discovered that she was carrying the BRCA1 cancer gene. This meant she had an 85pc chance of developing breast cancer and a 50pc chance of developing ovarian cancer.

To reduce her risk to 5pc, Emma had a double mastectomy and had her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed.

However, in 2007, in spite of the surgery, she was diagnosed with cancer for the first time and an 11-year battle ensued.

Her post yesterday continued: "To say that I am heartbroken doesn't begin to cover it. But I feel I'd like to say something, after all that's what I've done over the years - say stuff, write stuff and tell you what's going down."

Children

Emma, a bestselling author, blogger and TV personality, spoke openly about her love for her children, son Sacha, daughter Kim, husband Cian, parents, family, friends and fans, adding that her love for them has been integral to her life.

Her novels include: Designer Genes, Miss Conceived, The Pink Ladies Club, Keeping Mum, Perfect Wives, Driving Home For Christmas, The Secrets We Share and memoir, Talk to the Headscarf. She asked readers to enjoy her latest book, Letters To My Daughters.

"These characters... grew on me and some annoyed me at times, but as always, they were mine. Enjoy them, curl up with some chocolate or some comfort food and a cup or a glass of whatever tickles your fancy."

Hundreds of fans on social media rushed to thank her for her books.

One fan posted: "Beautiful sad post Emma, your strength has been an inspiration to so many which we can only thank you with grateful hearts. You are only going ahead of us... Love to you and your family."