Women's Rugby World Cup: Ireland Forward Shannon Ikahihifo Diagnosed with Breast Cancer

Ireland co-captain Edel McMahon and her team stand firmly behind Shannon Ikahihifo following her recent breast cancer diagnosis.

New Zealand-born Ikahihifo, 30, has three Ireland caps and was part of the Women's Rugby World Cup training squad before missing the final selection.

In an Instagram post on Friday, the Trailfinders flanker revealed that five days after feeling fit on the pitch, she sat in a hospital room and learned she had breast cancer.

"I'm still in shock, but I'm blessed to have an amazing husband, family and friends supporting me," she wrote. "It's been a tough few weeks, but we're tougher."

After announcing the squad for Sunday's Pool C opener against Japan, McMahon praised Ikahihifo's bravery in sharing her news.

"We found out as a group before it became public, but we respected Shannon's need to process this privately," McMahon said. "She was courageous to speak out and raise awareness."

McMahon added that although Breast Cancer Awareness Month is next month, the entire squad is united in support without wanting to detract from the World Cup campaign.

Shannon Ikahihifo's openness about her diagnosis underscores her resilience and the Ireland team's unwavering support ahead of the tournament.

This topic was reported by BBC Sport.

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