Maghera cancer survivor thanks 'humble and selfless' people

A County Derry man, who received life saving cancer treatment, has made a generous donation to the hospital units that cared for him.

Gerry Dowdall, from Fallalea in Maghera, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lymphoma back in February 2025.

At the time, the diagnosis came as a massive shock to the 71 year-old who had always 'made a very conscious effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle'.

In the months that followed the cancer diagnosis, the pensioner faced a whirlwind of emotions, hospital appointments and intensive treatment.

“My cancer journey was, I am sure, very similar to so many others before me, a rollercoaster of a time with ups and downs, good days and bad, but through it all I was determined to be as positive as I possibly could and not go quietly,” explained Gerry.

“Following the diagnosis, I had five months of treatment as a revolving inpatient in Ward C7 in Antrim Area Hospital, a stem cell transplant and further chemotherapy, during September/October 2025, which took place at Belfast City Hospital.

“I am lucky to have been offered the stem cell treatment as I was told by my doctors that the age limit was 65. I am one of the oldest people in the North to ever receive this treatment and I am now currently in remission.”

Before Christmas, local people in the greater Maghera area rallied to raise money - £630 - which Gerry donated to Laurel House and Ward C7.

Paying a heartfelt thanks to all who supported him during his cancer journey, Gerry continued: “I would like to take this opportunity to convey a very heartfelt thank you to all those who contributed that money. To my family, friends and neighbours who supported me throughout my journey, with cards, messages of support, home cooked meals, phone calls and empathy, you all contributed to my outcome.

“I would also like to offer my sincerest heartfelt gratitude to all the staff, nurses, ancillary nurses, doctors, domestics, porters and consultants in Antrim Area Hospital and Belfast City Hospital, whose untying, selfless and unwavering professional attitude got me to where I am today.

“Thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart to a most humble and selfless people,” he added.