A Limavady woman has paid tribute to her mother-in-law who defied doctors' expectations and lived another seven months after a terminal cancer diagnosis.
Linda McGinnis is now fundraising for Foyle Hospice for the care and support she received from the "angels in uniform" at the end-of-life charity.
The Co Derry woman is set to take part in the Female Walk/Run in aid of the charity next week.
Read more: Co Derry mum's shock at cancer diagnosis after attributing stomach pains to exercise and diet change
The walk/run takes place on June 11 which also marks the date of her mother-in-law Doreen McGinnis' passing last year.
Linda McGinnis is also walking for her father Francis Hanely, who died from cancer ten years ago.
And she will be joined by her 12-year-old daughter Eva, who is looking forward to walking in memory of her grandparents.
When Doreen was diagnosed with Upper GI Cancer in November 2021, she was told she had only eight weeks to live.
However, Doreen, who was described as a strong and determined lady, surpassed all expectations and lived for another 7 months.
“She really was an amazing woman who fought to the end,” Linda said.
“She had sudden swelling in her stomach and she had been to A&E a few times.
“After she was the given the news, the doctors initially didn’t think she was well enough for radiotherapy or chemotherapy.”
She continued: “My sister-in-law works within palliative care in Antrim and she advised us to obtain a palliative care referral.
“If it hadn’t been for her, we wouldn’t have been aware of this amazing service.”
Linda recalls Doreen as “very independent” and “strong-willed” who originally worked at the Daintifyt in Limavady before going on to become a childminder for many years, a job she adored as she was great with kids.
Linda went on to praise the incredible support which Doreen and her family received during her time at Foyle Hospice.
She continued: “From that palliative care diagnosis, we had fantastic support from day one with Lisa from the Hospice providing regular home visits and advice.
“The Hospice nurses liaised with Doreen’s District Nursing Team to advise on medication changes as required.
“They also provided emotional support, making sure her wishes were always central and discussing difficult topics and allaying her fears."
She described the Foyle Hospice staff as "angels in uniform".
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