Thousands raised within days for young father of three diagnosed with terminal cancer

A GoFundMe page set up to support Kilkenny man Ray Shannon who was diagnosed with terminal cancer has received more than doubled its original target within just days of being created.

Ray, who was originally from Arthurstown in Wexford, has lived in Glenpipe, County Kilkenny for over 20 years with his wife Sophia and their three children. 

Ray was first diagnosed with stage four melanoma after undergoing surgery to have a mole on his back removed in 2023. The young father of three has endured immunotherapy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy but has unfortunately been recently told that his cancer has spread to other areas of his body and is now terminal. 

Derek Shannon, Ray's cousin and organiser of the fundraiser, has said that the family has considered exploring clinical trials but sadly they are no longer an option at this stage. Due to his condition, Ray is unable to continue working and his wife Sophia cares for him around the clock. 

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Ray has been self-employed for the past decade while running his graphic design company FabD. His work led him to becoming a prop maker and set designer with local theatrical companies such as New Ross Musical Society and he even helped produce props in Ardmore Studios for the iconic Viking TV series. 

The Kilkenny man was the main provider in his household and now that he is unable to work due to his illness, the family is faced with significant financial pressures. Derek said that this is why he and some of Ray's other cousins created the fundraiser, as to help ease the financial pressures the family are facing in the midst of this unimaginably difficult time.

Derek said that the money raised will help support Ray and Sophia's three children aged just 16, 12 and 7. 

The original goal set by the fundraiser was €20,000 and within just four days it has raised over €42,215. Once the fundraiser began to quickly surpass its target, Derek posted an update on behalf of the family to say thank you to everyone for their generosity.

He added: "Given the challenges that lie ahead, we have decided to keep the fundraiser open. All additional funds raised will go directly to Sophia and the family to help them navigate the next few difficult weeks, ensuring they have the support they need."

In the latest update, Derek said: "We continue to be deeply moved by the incredible generosity and support shown for Ray, Sophia, and their family during this heartbreaking time. Thanks to your kindness, we have not only reached our original fundraising target but have now doubled it—a testament to the strength and compassion of this community.

"Ray’s immediate family is overwhelmed by this outpouring of love and support, which is providing them with comfort as they navigate these devastating circumstances. With Ray’s health deteriorating each day, these funds are making a real difference in ensuring Sophia and the family have the resources they need during this difficult journey.

"To everyone who has donated—and to those who continue to do so—thank you. Your generosity means more than words can express, and your support is truly making a difference for Ray’s family during this incredibly difficult time"

To check out the fundraiser and help support the Shannon family, you can visit the GoFundMe page here.