Finnian Garbutt, a 28-year-old star of the BBC drama Hope Street, has shared a tragic health update, revealing he is entering the final stages of life following a terminal cancer diagnosis. The actor, known for his role as PC Ryan Power in the popular crime series filmed in Northern Ireland, was diagnosed with Stage 3 skin cancer, which has since spread to his neck.
Heartbreaking Social Media Announcement
In a sad message posted on Instagram, Finnian disclosed the devastating news to his followers. He explained that after experiencing pain in his back and hip, his cancer team admitted him for observations and scans. The results showed the cancer had progressed rapidly throughout his body.
"Unfortunately the scans have shown that the cancer has progressed rapidly in my body and I am now entering the last stages of life," he wrote. Finnian expressed difficulty in telling people individually and hoped that by sharing publicly, he could focus on enjoying time with his family and friends.
Focus on Family and Achievements
Despite the grim prognosis, Finnian reflected on his accomplishments since being diagnosed four years ago. He listed achieving life goals such as appearing in 30 episodes of a TV show, starring as the lead in an upcoming movie, buying a house, marrying his best friend, and becoming a father to an 18-month-old daughter.
"Since being diagnosed four years ago I have achieved so many of my life goals – 30 episodes on a TV show, being the lead in a movie that should be out soon, buying my own house marrying my best friend and becoming a father to the most incredible baby girl who never fails to make me smile," he shared.
Initial Diagnosis and Treatment
Finnian first discovered a lump behind his ear four years ago, initially mistaking it for an ingrown hair. His barber later alerted him to its growth, leading to a devastating diagnosis. He underwent a gruelling 12-hour surgery to remove 75 lymph nodes from his face and neck.
In an interview with Belfast Live, he described how his world came "crashing down" when doctors warned him he could die. "It was almost as if they accidentally had diagnosed me with cancer and were treating me by mistake," he said, adding that he had prepared for the worst, expecting tumours to spread throughout his body.
Final Wishes and Gratitude
Finnian concluded his social media post by thanking those who have supported him and his family over the years. He extended an invitation for meet-ups, saying, "If anyone wants to meet up for a pint, coffee or general bit of craic please reach out and we can try to make it work. Love as always Finnian."
As he faces this challenging time, Finnian is prioritising moments with his young daughter, cherishing every smile and memory in what he describes as the last stages of his life.
