Father said he would not live more than two years after stomach ache at Christmas

A father of three has revealed that stomach pains at Christmas were the sign of a devastating diagnosis.

Aiden O'Neill learned he had pancreatic cancer in January 2022, just weeks after suffering terrible stomach pains over the holidays. He was told he probably wouldn't survive more than two years, but two and a half years after the devastating news, he's now determined to complete a massive task.

He said: “I just let myself go for a couple of weeks, it was so unreal, I couldn't believe what was happening to me. I lost my job, I was a marathon runner and I've loved running all my life and cancer took that away from me.” After 12 rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and having two-thirds of his pancreas removed, Aidan, from Northern Ireland, had his tumour removed and was able to return to some of his passions, including running and exploring the outdoors.

The father is currently climbing three of Ireland's highest mountains in aid of Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, reports Belfast Live. He said the support he has received from Cancer Focus NI during this difficult time has been a huge help and has encouraged anyone experiencing any unusual symptoms to contact their GP immediately.

Aidan added: “I can't thank the team at Cancer Focus NI enough, they helped me through a really difficult time. I was able to speak to others who were in a similar situation to me which was invaluable. I'm so pleased to be able to give something back by taking part in the Big 3 Irish Mountain Challenge and raising funds to support the services that have made such a difference for me.”

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

Between August 23 and 25, Aidan, who has received a Spirit of Sport Award, will climb some of Ireland's most famous mountains, starting with Carrauntoohil in Munster, Lugnaquilla in Leinster and Slieve Donard in Ulster. Aidan will not be tackling the challenging trek alone. His long-time girlfriend Shauna Gibson will accompany him and offer him support, just as she did during Aidan's cancer battle.

Shauna would recommend anyone to take on the challenge. She says: “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 Ireland's most impressive peaks, we couldn't say no.

“Although these challenge events can be tough, they are so rewarding when you are raising funds for important 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 fun to meet like-minded people taking part in a challenge like this. It brings you together and helps you to reach each peak. Aidan and I can't wait to enjoy the view from each summit. It will be an experience we will never forget. And knowing that our donations will go to the charity's first cancer support centre makes it all worthwhile.”

Meanwhile, Cancer Focus NI has launched a five-year plan that will see the organisation open five new and bespoke therapeutic cancer support centres across Northern Ireland. The first of these centres is due to open in Enniskillen in early 2025. The cancer support centres will offer a range of essential support services including counselling, family support, specialist bra fittings, art therapy and a transport service for patients on their cancer journey.

If you would like to join Aidan and Shauna in the Big 3: Irish Mountain Trek Challenge, you can find more information at