OUR STORY

Just a background story to Damian’s short illness and why we chose the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund in Damian’s Memory.

In March 2016 Damian got the devastating news that he had cancer and the prognosis was poor, his cancer was terminal.

At that time the Oncologists couldn’t find the primary source stating it was GI cancer and started him on chemotherapy treatment. After being told of his diagnosis Damian just wanted to fight this cruel disease, he was very positive and embarked on 3 sessions of chemotherapy, not once did he complain, he was still out and about up until a couple of days before he died.

He still came out to the pitch to watch his two boys Thomas and Michael play hurling and football. We went on short breaks to Donegal, Tipperary and Cork (he loved his holidays) but on Thursday 23rd June 2016 he attended his next appointment in the Mandeville Unit in Craigavon Hospital to be told that his CT Scan had demonstrated that his cancer had progressed rapidly. Lisa and I left this appointment devastated.

Damian was still supporting us, he joked that now he would be able to go to Lanzarote for a holiday (during chemo he wasn’t allowed to fly). He still thought he had a few months to live but to our disbelief and horror my beloved Damian passed away at home on the morning of 4th July 2016.

In September we were told that his cancer was pancreatic (the silent cancer) the consultant explained that by the time of diagnosis the disease is well-advanced in the majority of patients, which means they are ineligible for surgery.

Because of the lack of research into pancreatic cancer and poor prognosis we chose the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund charity which is dedicated exclusively to supporting research and improving diagnosis and treatment. Research is currently being carried out locally in the Ulster University and Cork University Hospital.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in the organisation (a mammoth task) and participation in the Cycling Challenges on Sunday 28th May 2017 we really appreciate your continued support and kindness over the last few months. Damian wouldn’t believe the family and friends who have taken up cycling again (he would have a great laugh) hopefully he is looking down on us on the day.

In memory of Damian, the bravest, kindest, caring, funniest man wehave
known!

‘Simply the Best’

Pauline, Lisa, Thomas & amp; Michael

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Aghaderg GAC & Ballyvarley HC

Damian Lennon Cycle Challenge

Sunday 28 May 2017

Damian Lennon was a lifelong member of Aghaderg
GAC & Ballyvarley HC.

He played football and hurling with the club, he managed
teams and served on our Club and County Committee. He also played a huge role in the local Community Games organisation, at both local and county level. His commitment to sport, to young people and his local community was inspirational.

I cannot recall a time meeting Damian when he hadn’t a smile
on his face and a story to tell.

His sudden passing last year after a short and brave battle with pancreatic cancer has left all of his family and friends in the
club devastated.

Aghaderg GAC & Ballyvarley HC, in conjunction with the
Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund, is organising a Cycle Challenge on 28 May 2017 to celebrate Damian’s life, to celebrate his love of sport, his love of community and fun loving attitude to life. 

The Damian Lennon HQ Challenge will run from Croke Park to Aghaderg and the On Yer Bike Challenge will run from Scarva to Newry and back. A sponsored cycling jersey is being organised for the event and a ‘Just Giving' page has been set up.

You support is greatly appreciated.