Breast cancer campaigner Ziva Cussen (24), who died from the disease on Saturday, has been remembered at her funeral as someone who “courageously used her voice to support others”.
Ms Cussen was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in 2023 at the age of 21.
She cofounded the advocacy group Too Young to be Heard, which called for more urgency around care for younger diagnosed women. Breast cancer is more commonly found among those over 50.
In the aftermath of her diagnosis, Ms Cussen had described finding a small lump in early 2023 and going to her GP, after which she was referred to a clinic for an appointment five weeks later.
However, after the initial appointment, she waited over seven months for an ultrasound, by which time the cancer had spread.
At her funeral on Thursday in St Mary’s Church, Drogheda, Co Louth Ms Cussen had requested people wear sunset colours at her funeral to lighten their spirits and that her closest friends bring forward symbols of her life.
Her friend, Niamh, explained the symbols including a book with photographs of the people she loved, and a camera she used to “capture life’s moments, big and small”.
Her tan drops and eyelashes were “a reflection of her golden glow… her beauty was so evident on the outside, and even more so in her kindness, warmth, and the way she made others feel,” she said.
Other symbols included art materials she used “to express herself” when she became unwell, her dog Koa’s collar and her passport to reflect her love for travel.
“In Ziva’s own words: ‘If there’s something you want to do, get up and do it now. Don’t wait for the right time, because the time might not come’.”
Finally, a placard which read “never too young” was brought to the altar as a symbol of her advocacy.
“Ziva courageously used her voice to support others,” Niamh said. “The amazing work she carried out will continue to help and support people. Her advocacy was a true reflection of her passion, courage and commitment to making a difference.”
Parish priest Fr Derek Ryan said Ms Cussen “gave so much of her time to everyone, raising awareness through TikTok stories and Instagram posts”.
“She wanted better healthcare for everyone. I think that’s why she touched so many lives”.
He noted that had been lovingly cared for by her family who showed her “security, warmth and belonging”.
She is survived by her parents Jim and Marcelle and sister Lainey and extended family.
Following her death, Breast Cancer Ireland posted a statement online saying Cussen was “unwavering in her commitment to raising awareness that breast cancer can and does affect young women”.
[ Breast cancer diagnoses increase 26% in women under-50Opens in new window ]
“She gave every ounce of strength she had to sharing her story, determined that no young woman should feel unheard, dismissed or alone. Her voice helped shine a light on the urgent need for earlier diagnosis, better awareness and age-appropriate care,” it said.