Belfast man who raised thousands for charity dies after cancer battle

Matthew Starkey was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in February.

32-year-old Matthew Starkey from South Belfast passed away yesterday, August 4, his family confirmed. He was diagnosed with stage 4 spinal cancer in February of this year.

The beloved teacher was an avid gym-goer before his diagnosis, after which he was determined to stay fit and challenged himself to complete the Belfast Half Marathon later this year in a wheelchair.

He documented his cancer battle via social media under the name 'Fast and Tumorous', raising a massive £50,000 for charity.

However, yesterday his family confirmed his passing, saying: "We lost our darling Matthew on Sunday 3rd August at 10:10, peacefully surrounded by all his loved ones. He was deeply loved and will be sorely missed by all.

"He fought a brave battle with continued courage, wit and unwavering strength and we will always be proud of his determination to inspire others.

"We want to extend our thanks again to @mariecurieuk for their love, care and support to Matthew and family during this incredibly difficult time.

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose. For all that we love deeply becomes part of us. Love, The Starkeys," read the statement.

Matthew married his girlfriend Carrie just two months ago, posting at the time: "Marrying the woman of your dreams, surrounded by your nearest and dearest and overcoming some hurdles along the way.

"Pretty special day all round."

Matthew taught business, IT, and PE at St Colman's High School in Ballynahinch.

He had secured a full-time teaching position at the school after being on a temporary contract for three years.

He underwent the job interview from his hospital bed.

Matthew had previously spoken to Belfast Live about his diagnosis, saying that his diagnosis felt 'very unfair' after 'doing [his] best over the years to live healthy'.

"And things had been going well in my life up to that point, having bought a house with my fiancé, got my dream car and am working in a job that I love.

"My life has been completely changed and while it is very hard for me to process what the future holds, I am doing my best to keep a positive mindset and look towards the future regardless.

"While my diagnosis is not good, I won't let the prognosis get in the way of me living my life and doing my best to prove it wrong. I have such an amazing support network around me with my family, my fiancé Carrie and her family and my friends and it is very reassuring to know that they will always be there for me through the difficult times," he said.

Tributes poured in for the teacher, with people remembering him as 'an absolute gent'.

"Utterly devastating news, Matthew was a true gentleman with a heart of gold," wrote another.

Another said: "He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered. He inspired people daily to be the best version of themselves and that will never be forgotten."

Matthew is survived by his wife, parents, siblings, in-laws, his niece and nephew, and wide circle of friends and loved ones.

He will be reposing at his grandmother’s house from Tuesday August 5, with visitors welcome Tuesday and Wednesday.

Funeral service will be celebrated on Thursday August 7 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Carryduff at 10.30am followed by burial in Roselawn Cemetery.