'˜Donate for dads' this Father's Day

The charity is asking supporters to remember their dads by making a donation.

“Instead of buying your dad another tie, some more golf equipment or the same old box of sweets, you can make a real difference by helping other dads affected by cancer in Northern Ireland,” a spokesperson for Cancer Focus NI said.

“Little kids and big kids alike can cook their dad his favourite meal, go on a day trip together or spend the day doing one of his favourite hobbies - and use the money they save to make a donation to Cancer Focus NI.”

Islandmagee woman Rosie Forsythe, a fundraiser for the charity, is taking part along with many of her friends and their families.

She said: “Rather than buying my dad a tie or pair of socks this Father’s Day, I decided to make a donation to Cancer Focus.

“My family and I would be lost without my dad; he is the glue that keeps us all together.

“He is the first person we all phone, when we have any problems or we need help or support.

“I hope this donation helps support other dads and grandads across Northern Ireland, affected by cancer.”

Lianne Wilson, community fundraising officer, Cancer Focus NI, added: “Every year around 6,000 men in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with cancer and their lives and the lives of their families are turned upside down.

“Cancer Focus NI is here to help them during this difficult time with our wide range of care services.

“None of our services are possible without donations like yours, so why not show your dad you care this Father’s Day with a gift that will give other dads and grandads the support they need.”

For more information or to make a donation, contact the Cancer Focus NI fundraising team at [email protected] or call 028 9066 3281.

Meanwhile, anyone who has concerns about cancer can speak to a specialist nurse on the Cancer Focus Northern Ireland free Helpline, 0800 783 3339.