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Paul Mescal's Mother: Cancer Was A Gift
25 Feb
Summary
- Dearbhla Mescal calls her cancer diagnosis a 'gift' that allowed her to 'begin again'.
- She was diagnosed with multiple myeloma four years ago at age 53 and is now in remission.
- Paul Mescal experienced a panic attack on set upon hearing about his mother's diagnosis.
Dearbhla Mescal, mother of actor Paul Mescal, has shared a unique perspective on her cancer diagnosis, calling it a "gift" that initiated a profound personal transformation. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, four years ago at the age of 53, Dearbhla is now 57 and in remission following a stem cell transplant. She recently discussed her experience on a podcast, explaining how the illness, which occurred as she was nearing retirement, compelled her to "begin again."
She elaborated that the physical and emotional reset of her treatment allowed her to "re-engage" with herself and view her body with newfound gratitude. This journey led her to "fall in love with myself," appreciating her strength beyond physical changes like wrinkles. The diagnosis also served as a significant shock to her son, Paul Mescal, who admitted to experiencing a panic attack on set while filming "All of Us Strangers" after hearing the news.
Multiple myeloma is a rare blood cancer that originates in the bone marrow. Plasma cells, which normally fight infection, develop abnormally and form tumors. This condition weakens bone marrow, impairing the production of healthy blood cells. While there is no cure, treatments like stem cell transplants and various therapies can help patients live longer. The disease affects older individuals, with over 96 percent of diagnoses in those over 45, and is more prevalent in men and those with a family history.
