Aslan’s frontman Christy Dignam has been battling cancer for years. His brave and honest approach to his illness has inspired many. In a recent interview, he spoke about his experience with palliative care and how it has changed his life. In this article, we will delve deeper into his story and learn about the importance of palliative care in cancer treatment.
Christy Dignam, the lead singer of Irish band Aslan, has opened up in a poignant interview about his experience of receiving palliative care for cancer. Dignam was diagnosed with Amyloidosis and multiple myeloma over a decade ago and has been cared for at home since leaving hospice earlier this year. In an emotional conversation with broadcaster Ryan Tubridy, Dignam reflected on his life, spirituality, and his ongoing battle with cancer.
Speaking about his stay in the hospice, Dignam revealed that he saw it as a stepping stone towards heaven. “I thought this is it, this is the conveyor belt up to heaven. I’ll go in here, and this will be the end of it,” he said. During his time at the hospice, Dignam explained that his wife, Kathryn, had been concerned that he would never make it back home. However, Dignam revealed that it had given him a chance to reflect on his life and to limit visitors to avoid exposure to germs.
Today, Dignam is being cared for at home in Finglas by family members, including his wife and daughter. The singer explained that he now has a hospital bed set up in the TV room to make things more comfortable. “It’s easier for me to be able to sleep there, and then I can watch telly during the day or I can look out the window,” he said. Dignam adds that he remembers one day looking out of the window and seeing a person walking past. “I was just looking and said, “You will never do that again, you will never walk.’ That sent me into a spiral, and I started thinking about all the things I want to do again, it’s like you’re heading into the abyss.”
When it comes to reflecting on his beliefs and spirituality, Dignam said he is not hugely religious but identifies as spiritual. “I believe we are all spiritual beings in some sense or another,” he said. The singer also talked about his time in Narcotics Anonymous and how he identified with the idea that religion is for people who want to go to heaven, while spirituality is for people who have been to hell. He explained how rough times have helped him see the world in a more focused way.
During the interview, Dignam talked about his initial denial when he was given the diagnosis of two rare blood cancers. “Initially I rejected it, and I said to your man, ‘You go back to Trinity and give back your degrees.’ I said, ‘You don’t have a clue what you are talking about,” he said. Dignam also reflected on his time with Aslan and how he has no regrets. “I had a brilliant life with them, and when it was good, it was absolutely amazing,” he said.
Despite his health challenges, Dignam says he is grateful for the time he has left and is focusing on enjoying the company of his family and loved ones. The singer has received an outpouring of support from fans who have shared their own experiences of cancer and have been inspired by his bravery and courage.
As we come to the end of this article, we are reminded of the importance of discussing palliative care for those facing cancer. It can be a difficult and emotional topic, but as Christy Dignam bravely shared, it’s a crucial aspect of cancer treatment to provide comfort and dignity for patients. While there is still much progress to be made in improving access to palliative care, including funding and education, we can all do our part to initiate conversations and advocate for better care for those facing the end of their lives. Let us draw strength from Christy’s inspiring words and continue to support one another through the toughest times.
