Finnian Garbutt, the 28-year-old actor known for his role in Hope Street, has shared a deeply emotional update with his followers about his ongoing battle with skin cancer. After being diagnosed four years ago, Finnian revealed that his condition has worsened, and he is now entering the final stages of his life.
A Heartbreaking Update on Instagram
Finnian took to Instagram earlier this week to share the devastating news, writing: “I’m putting this out there as it is really difficult to tell people individually, and I hope now it’s in the open, then I can enjoy the time with my amazing family and friends.”
Reflecting on his life, Finnian shared that, despite his illness, he has been able to achieve many of his life goals. These include starring in 30 episodes of a TV show, playing the lead in a film, marrying his best friend, and becoming a father to his “most amazing little girl,” Saoirse.
He also took a moment to express his gratitude to everyone who has supported him throughout his journey. “If anyone wants to meet up for a pint, coffee, or general bit of craic, please reach out and we can try and make it work,” he said, sharing a touching picture of himself with his daughter.
GoFundMe Launched for His Family
In light of this heartbreaking update, Finnian’s family has launched a GoFundMe to help support his wife, Louise, and their young daughter, Saoirse, through this incredibly difficult time.
The family wrote: “No doubt you’ve seen that Finnian’s received some devastating news regarding his cancer, and that we’re now in an end-of-life stage of his journey. This has been extremely difficult for all of us, especially his young family.”
They went on to explain that Finnian and Louise had only been married for six months, with their daughter, Saoirse, celebrating her first birthday just before the wedding. Though Finnian had been living with cancer for four years and had been open about his experience, his family believed he had more time.
However, with the cancer spreading rapidly, the family now finds themselves cherishing each day they have left with him. “We in the family are doing all we can to ensure Louise and Saoirse have all the love and support we can offer,” they continued. “But Finn is very aware that he isn’t able to provide the kind of financial security he wished he could to his wife and daughter. As a result, we’ve decided to launch this GoFundMe.”
Support Pouring in from Fans
The GoFundMe is aimed at providing financial relief for Louise, allowing her to take time off to grieve, as well as helping with essential bills, Saoirse’s future education, and other expenses that may arise.
Since Finnian’s announcement, the response from fans and followers has been overwhelming, with more than £36,000 donated to the GoFundMe so far. The family expressed their gratitude, saying, “We really can’t thank you enough for your kind words and gestures. Getting up each day and dealing with this is much easier thanks to the support you’re giving us.”
The flood of love and support has continued on social media, with many of Finnian’s co-stars sharing heartfelt messages. One co-star wrote, “Fin you beautiful thing. Never once have I felt so welcome. Watching you play on our fun little show was honestly such a blessing to us all. You really are such a gorgeously talented creature, and I cannot say how much of an honor it is to know you.”
Another added, “I’m so, so sorry Finn. I’m really glad you are able to see how much you’ve achieved in such a difficult time, and on top of that, you are an inspiration to so many people. A [bleeping] legend, an outrageous talent, and a genuinely good person through and through.”
A third fan commented, “You are a legend. And a great Da.”
As Finnian faces this incredibly difficult time, his legacy and the love surrounding him continue to shine brightly, with his family and fans rallying around him for support.
