Charles Edward Stewart is a truly remarkable man.

He is renowned in the legal profession of Northern Ireland after taking over his father’s and grandfather’s firm and having continued to work up until a few weeks ago. 

He loved Ulster rugby, tennis, cars, holidays, good wine and had an zest for life. His beloved dogs, in particular Teddy provided him with such joy.

As a husband, father and grandfather the love he demonstrated was boundless.

Four years ago he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. His mother died of pancreatic cancer 38 years ago. 

He courageously lived with pancreatic cancer and as a family we will forever be in awe of his strength-working and playing tennis until recently. 

The picture you see was taken on his birthday, Boxing Day less than six months ago. He suggested we went in the torrential rain to Donaghadee lighthouse to let his grandchildren see the waves.

He was very clear that he did not wish us to be sent flowers or cards but wants to try and make a difference to pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment in Northern Ireland. The rates of pancreatic cancer in Northern Ireland are so high and outcomes needs improved.

We as a family will be forever indebted to the hepatobiliary unit who did his surgery and cared for him,with particular reference to Miss Claire Jones, a superb clinician and surgeon who showed us and him such empathy. The gastroenterology team, Dr Ryan Scott and Dr Inder Mainie gave Charles autonomy to the end - that can not be underestimated.

If you wish to show your support and admiration to Charles in how he lived with this horrible disease and so courageously, please help us get earlier detection methods and more individualised treatment to improve prognosis.