BeIN Sports Journalist Mary Patrux Reveals Breast Cancer Recurrence After Chemotherapy
Mary Patrux, a prominent sports journalist for beIN Sports, has publicly shared her battle with the recurrence of breast cancer. Diagnosed initially in 2020, Patrux revealed on February 21, 2026, via an Instagram post that the cancer has returned, despite initial hopes for a full recovery.1
Initial Diagnosis and Treatment
Patrux first received a breast cancer diagnosis in 2020. Following the initial diagnosis, she believed she had overcome the disease. However, during a routine check-up, she received the news of its return.2
Recent Chemotherapy and Treatment Plan
Patrux recently completed 16 rounds of chemotherapy, finishing three weeks prior to her public announcement.3 She is scheduled to begin radiotherapy in three weeks, consisting of fifteen sessions over three weeks, followed by hormone therapy.2
Decision to Go Public
Patrux initially hesitated to share her recurrence publicly, having kept her first diagnosis private. However, she was motivated by a desire to help others facing similar challenges and to destigmatize the cancer journey. She sought to indicate that it is possible to navigate chemotherapy while maintaining a relatively normal life.2
Maintaining Hair During Chemotherapy
Despite undergoing chemotherapy known to cause hair loss, Patrux was able to retain her hair through the use of a cooling helmet during treatment. She rented a Penguin brand helmet and followed a strict protocol, including keeping the helmet cold (around -30°C) throughout the infusion process, changing it every 25 minutes.2, 4
Support System
Patrux has received significant support from her husband, Olivier Canton and her sister, who assisted her with the cooling helmet protocol every Tuesday. Her children, Louise and Paul, were informed of her recurrence with guidance from a child psychologist.2
Continuing Professional Life
Patrux has continued to function throughout her treatment, presenting for beIN Sports. She emphasized the importance of maintaining her professional life as a way to cope with the illness and maintain a sense of normalcy.4