Family and friends are rallying around a Northern Ireland dad to help him receive the treatment he urgently needs for pancreatic cancer.
Aidan O'Neill, 58 and from Crumlin, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer back in January 2022 after experiencing stomach pains over the Christmas period.
The prognosis for survival wasn't great, with a likelihood of him not surviving past two years. But the dad-of-three managed to beat the odds after being told his condition was palliative and inoperable.
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After twelve rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment in England, along with the removal of two thirds of his pancreas, Aidan had his tumour removed and was able to get back to some of his passions, including running and exploring the outdoors.
His recovery was thanks to cutting-edge research and treatment by Clinical Oncologist at Genesis Care, Dr James Good and Charles Imber, a pioneering pancreatic surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic in London, Aidan underwent chemotherapy, SABR treatment, and surgery, achieving remission.
But after the disease recently returned, Aidan now faces a new battle as his long-time friend Shauna Gibson explained: "Unfortunately, Aidan experienced a recurrence of cancer a few months ago. Back then his medical team believed that if the disease could be stabilised with chemotherapy, SABR treatment could be used again.
"After enduring seven gruelling sessions of the tough Folfirinox chemotherapy regime, Aidan’s recent scans show the disease has stabilised. He's hanging in there as it's a really brutal and strong treatment. His team at Genesis Care has now recommended that this is the right time for SABR treatment."
SABR (Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy) is an advanced technology that uses precision medicine to target only the tumour, delivering maximum radiation while sparing surrounding tissues. This innovative treatment offers the potential to put the tumour into remission for a longer period, and clinical trials have shown promising results.
Shauna says this is Aidan’s best chance of the most time with a better quality of life. Despite his illness, Aidan astounded his doctors when he managed to complete the Dublin Marathon in October while wearing his PICC line for chemo.
"That's the energy levels that Aidan has - on his good days he's running and on bad days he can't get off the sofa. The doctors couldn't believe that he's still running after all the chemo," she added.
His friends at RunAnon Crumlin, where Aidan is still coaching and running, have set up a fundraiser to help Aidan get this urgent SABR treatment, which has already raised over £15,000, in only a few days.
They said: "SABR will also buy us time to explore the latest developments in pancreatic cancer treatment, such as immunotherapy. Dr Good has already connected us with leading experts in this field. Unfortunately, SABR is not currently available through the NHS, and we need to raise the funds to make this treatment possible.
"We know it’s a difficult time of year to ask for support, with Christmas just around the corner, but we’re deeply grateful for any amount you can spare. Every penny will make a difference in helping Aidan access the treatment he urgently needs.
"Anyone who knows Aidan knows how humble and giving he is, always supporting friends, family, and charities and he hates to ask for help. Your generosity in the past has been truly overwhelming, and we would be so grateful if you could help once again. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."
You can donate to the fundraiser here.
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