Gladney steps back from politics as he fights cancer

A LOCAL councillor has taken the very tough decision to temporarily step back from political life for health reasons as he battles prostate cancer as well as a condition often described as ‘the most excruciating pain known to humanity’.

Sinn Féin’s cllr Andy Gladney this week announced that he is temporarily stepping back from his role as a local councillor in Bagenalstown Municipal District to concentrate on his health.

Cllr Gladney was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. He is also battling an extremely painful and debilitating condition called trigeminal neuralgia, a chronic pain disorder that involves sudden attacks of severe facial pain. This condition affects the trigeminal nerve and the pain is agonising, often described as ‘the most excruciating pain known to humanity’.

Cllr Gladney will undergo radiation treatment and a number of surgeries for both conditions in the coming months, but he remains positive and determined.

“Local politics has been a huge part of my life for over the last ten-and-a-half years. I will be taking some time off to allow myself to get the necessary medical attention,” he told The Nationalist. “But I’m not going anywhere; I will be fighting fit again and be back out representing you all in a few months’ time.” The decision to step back from political life has been a very difficult one for cllr Gladney, coming just days before his daughter Áine Gladney Knox contests the general election for Sinn Féin in the Carlow/Kilkenny constituency.

Due to his health challenges, cllr Gladney has not been able to get out to the doorsteps this election campaign, as he would like, which has been a frustration and disappointment to him.

“This is probably one of the hardest times for me,” he admitted. “I’m immensely proud of my daughter, being so brave and putting her name forward to run in this upcoming general election. It takes a lot to step forward, but I believe she is 100% the right woman for the job.

“So I can’t knock on your door and ask you to please consider Áine Gladney Knox for your number one vote, so I’m asking here. I believe Áine will represent every voice and help deliver real change to all,” he said.

In relation to prostate cancer, cllr Gladney also offered his advice to men to take note of symptoms they experience and to seek medical advice.

“Truthfully, I didn’t know what the symptoms for prostate cancer were until I watched Tommy Tiernan and a man was on speaking about his diagnosis of prostate cancer. I thought to myself, I have all them symptoms,” said cllr Gladney.

“After numerous blood tests, MRI and biopsies, it was confirmed. I would encourage all men to please take note of any symptoms that they notice, ask your GP for a PSA blood test. Early detection is the key,” he said.

Cllr Gladney also offered his heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been sending him good wishes.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has asked after me and sent me well wishes. I’ll be back soon,” said a resolute cllr Gladney.