Hopes high for US treatment for Rónán Mac Aodh Bhuí

The fundraising initiative for life-changing cancer treatment for radio broadcaster Rónán Mac Aodh Bhuí is certain to move up a gear following news that tumours in his liver have doubled in size and further tumours have developed in his lungs and liver.  

However, friends and family are hoping a self-pay Phase 2 trial in America may be suitable for the much-loved Raidió na Gaeltachta presenter. However, the cost of these treatments is hugely expensive.

To date, fundraising events have taken place on Tory Island, Gaoth Dobhair, Gortahork, Rath Cairn and Monaghan. An all-day event is due to take place in Belfast on March 25 in conjunction with Madden’s Bar.

Rónán has been battling cancer for four years, he was diagnosed with stage 3 Colon cancer in May 2019, and had surgery followed by chemotherapy. In April 2021, the cancer returned,  Stage 4 Colon cancer with metastases to liver, peritoneum, and diaphragm. 

He had more chemotherapy treatment and major surgery, but they were not able to remove all the tumours. He has Stage 4 Colon cancer with metastases to  liver and lungs. He has had 2 major surgeries and around 40 bouts of chemo in the last few years, and  is now at a stage where the chemo he was on has stopped working, and a cure or surgery is not an option, in Ireland.

He has been receiving treatment at a clinic in Spain for up to a month now and is organising other suitable treatments at clinics abroad.    

Friends and family say Rónán will continue to fight this battle. It is certain that people across the country will show their continuing support by planning fundraising events, if anyone would like to plan an event, please do so by emailing cairderonain@gmail.com. You can also donate to Ciste Tacaíochta Rónáin by clicking here.