Co Antrim Spirit of Sport winner aims for biggest challenge since cancer diagnosis

Aidan O’Neill, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just two and a half years ago, now plans to climb some of Ireland’s highest peaks.

Aidan O’Neill from County Antrim is excited about his next big adventure, climbing three of Ireland’s highest peaks in one weekend for local charity Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.

Not long ago, this journey seemed impossible for Aidan, but in January 2022 he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after suffering from abdominal pain over Christmas.

The prognosis for survival was not great with a chance of not surviving the last 2 years. The father of three looks back on that incredibly difficult period. Aidan told:

“I let myself fall apart for a few weeks, it was so surreal, I couldn’t believe it was happening to me. I lost my job, I was a marathon runner and loved running my whole life, and cancer took that away from me.”

After twelve rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in England, during which two-thirds of his pancreas was removed, Aidan’s tumour was removed and he was able to resume his hobbies, such as running and exploring the outdoors.

Aidan credits the support he has received from Cancer Focus NI during such a difficult time and encourages anyone experiencing any unusual symptoms to see their GP straight away. He continued:

“I can’t thank the team at Cancer Focus NI enough, they helped me through a really tough time. I was able to talk to others who were in a similar situation to me which was invaluable. I’m so glad I’m in a position to give a little bit back by taking part in The Big 3 Irish Mountain Challenge and raising money to support the services that have made such a difference to me.

“It’s so important to look after your health, so I would encourage everyone to know their own body and if something doesn’t feel right, call your GP straight away. And if you have any general concerns, call the charity’s Nurseline on 0800 783 3339 for a chat, advice and referral.”

Between 23 and 25 August, the winner of a Spirit of Sport award will tackle some of Ireland’s most iconic mountains, starting with Carrauntoohil in Munster, Lugnaquilla in Leinster and Slieve Donard in Ulster. Aidan won’t be tackling the ambitious journey alone, with old friend Shauna Gibson by participating with him and supporting him, just as she did during Aidan’s cancer journey.

Shauna would like to encourage everyone to take up the challenge, she said:

“Aidan and I have always loved the outdoors and taking part in exciting challenges, so when we heard about The Big 3 Trek and the opportunity to climb some of the most stunning peaks in Ireland, we couldn’t say no. Although these challenging events can be tough, they are so rewarding when you raise money for vital organisations like Cancer Focus NI, who provide so much support to local people, just like Aidan, here in Northern Ireland.”

She continued: “It’s always great to meet like-minded people taking on a challenge like this, it bonds you together and helps you reach the top of each peak. Aidan and I can’t wait to see the views from the top of each peak, it’s going to be an experience we’ll never forget. And knowing that our fundraising is going to the charity’s first ever Cancer Support Centre makes it all worthwhile.”

Cancer Focus NI has launched a five-year plan that will see the organisation open five new, bespoke Therapeutic Cancer Support Centres across Northern Ireland, with the first due to open in Enniskillen in early 2025. The Cancer Support Centres will provide a range of essential support services including counselling, family support, specialist bra fitting, art therapy and a patient transport service for local people undergoing cancer treatment.

Minimum fundraising target: £900