'Gentle giant' teen dies of rare cancer initially diagnosed as mobility problems

02 April 2024 , 07:16

1074     0

The heartbroken family of Owen McAfee who lost his battle with a rare cancer have paid tribute to their "gentle giant"

Heartbroken parents have paid tribute to their "gentle giant" son who died 18 months after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.

Owen McAfee, 17, had been experiencing problems in his right hip - including mobility issues - when he was diagnosed back in July 2022. His problems had been initially diagnosed as hypermobility over the phone as he was unable to see a doctor during Covid. The teen, from Armagh, had started private physio to regain his strength, and post-treatment scans six months after his diagnosis in January 2023 came back all-clear.

But Owen's family tentatively celebrated the news, knowing there was a high chance it would insidiously return. The brave teen underwent radiotherapy on his hip and thigh in February last year, and while the tumour initially remained stable, but sadly scans in June and August showed the disease was back in his lungs. While he was still symptom-free, oncologists opted to "watch and wait" before rushing to start treatment again.

Owen with mum Glenda, dad Jimmy, brother Jack and sister Olivia

Mum Glenda had searched for financial support to help with the costs of cell immunotherapy and advance diagnostic tests, Belfast Live reports, as these were sadly not available on the NHS. A fundraiser was launched by the family in September to help raise money for the treatment.

Tragically, Owen's family has since confirmed the teen's passing on Easter Sunday morning in a statement on social media. They said: "It is with utter heartbreak that we have to share with you all. Our beautiful gentle Owen has left us and went to the angels above. The pain in our hearts is unbearable and we ask you to keep his mummy Glenda, daddy Jimmy, brother Jack ,sister Olivia in your prayers. Both the Powell and McAfee families' hearts are broke."

Hospitals run out of oxygen and mortuaries full amid NHS chaos

"Owen was a gentle giant, with the quickest wit, Owen cared so deeply for his family and his wonderful group of friends. Constantly surprising his family with gifts, especially his mummy and sister! He was the life and soul of the party and would never miss an Armagh match! Thank you to absolutely every single person, and business locally and afar who donated to the Onward for Owen campaign. It's because of each of you, it helped provide treatment for Owen, that was beyond our reach."

"It gave Owen more time with his family and friends, and for that we will be forever grateful. We want to thank the community of Armagh for rallying around our family in our time of need, this brought Owen and his family a great sense of comfort and pride to be part of our community. Thank you all. Please hold our wonderful Owen in your hearts and prayers. Onward for Owen forever. Forever young."

Lauren Harte