Finding Support and Strength at Christmastime.

No one wants to face cancer alone — and at Christmastime, that sense of isolation can feel even heavier.

When 62-year-old Armagh man, Nigel McMahon was diagnosed with bowel cancer in February 2025, his world changed overnight. After surgery to remove part of his bowel, Nigel began preventative chemotherapy.

Living alone — with his mum now in a care home — he describes those early weeks as some of the hardest of his life. “There was no one at home to talk to,” Nigel recalls. “It was a really difficult time.”

During his visits to The Mandeville Unit in Craigavon, Nigel began chatting with other patients who truly understood what he was going through. It was there he first heard about Charis Cancer Care — and how the centre supports people living with cancer, free of charge.

Since coming to Charis, Nigel says his life has changed for the better. “Charis has helped me so much — not just physically, but mentally too. The welcoming cuppa, the complementary therapies and the support from everyone here have really lifted my spirits.”

For Nigel, Charis has become a lifeline — a place of warmth, friendship, and hope. “Even on the low days, I always feel better after being at Charis” he says. “They have given me the strength to keep going.”

As a thank you for the support he has received, Nigel took part in our Walk the Fea Way event in September and raised an incredible £2,330. He has also placed several collection cans in his local area and continues to raise awareness and vital funds for the charity.

This Christmas, Nigel is asking you to help others “Just the cost of a gingerbread latte will help ensure that every person who comes to Charis receives a welcoming cuppa – giving comfort, care and compassion in a cup so please donate today”.