Roy McKinty, a resident from Oakmont Lodge in Bangor, which is owned by Dunluce Healthcare, has grown out his beard in support for Friends of the Cancer Centre.

This feat has seen Roy raise over £500 for the vital work of the charity which provides support to cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland, with the official cheque handover taking place at Oakmont Lodge.

Reflecting on his achievement, Roy said:

“This challenge was a meaningful way for me to give back and highlight the incredible work of Friends of the Cancer Centre.

“I’m deeply grateful for the encouragement I received from the staff at Oakmont Lodge, fellow residents, and my family.

“Taking this on has given me a real sense of pride, and I’m hopeful that the money raised will make a difference for those who benefit from the great work of Friends of the Cancer Centre.”

Sabah Abbad, Nurse Manager at Oakmont Lodge, commented:

“At Dunluce Healthcare, we are committed to supporting not only the residents in our care but also the wider community.

“Roy’s achievement is inspiring, both within Dunluce Healthcare and beyond, and we hope the funds raised will help Friends of the Cancer Centre continue its vital work, which makes a real difference to those during what is often a very challenging time.”

This donation underscores Dunluce Healthcare’s dedication to community wellness as it equips Friends of the Cancer Centre with funds needed to make a positive impact.

Amy Cowan, Fundraising Manager at Friends of the Cancer Centre, commented:

“At Friends of the Cancer Centre, we rely on the generosity of communities and fundraising efforts to continue our work supporting those facing cancer and their families.

“We are incredibly grateful to Roy for his amazing efforts in raising these funds.

“This donation will help us support patients and their families and the £500 raised by Roy could help provide 20 hours of care from one of the specialist nurses funded by the charity.

“We thank everyone involved for their kindness and support.”

For 40 years, Friends of the Cancer Centre has been dedicated to making a real and meaningful difference to cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland.

The charity is here to enhance the quality of patient care and support through its life-changing and life-saving work, which includes funding additional nurses, supporting local research and providing practical support, such as financial grants, which help families through a difficult time.

Friends of the Cancer Centre relies on the generosity of the local community and all money donated stays in Northern Ireland, directly benefitting patients and their families.