Dad dies after irritable bowel syndrome turned out to be cancer

A family has shared their heartbreak as a dad has died after a two-year battle with cancer.

Michael Moriarty, 37, was diagnosed with cancerous tumours in his bowel, liver and lung after being dismissed by doctors when he noticed blood when emptying his bowels.

In March 2020 the dad-of-two, who lived with his wife Lyndsey and their two daughters Libby and Phoebe, said he started struggling with pain while working night shifts as a cleaner.

After previously being diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome and having his initial concerns dismissed as haemorrhoids, Michael finally managed to get a CT scan. On Christmas Eve of that year, doctors found the tumours and gave the family the heartbreaking news.

The Everton FC fan started a series of gruelling radiotherapy and chemotherapy bouts before being told he had just two years to live. Michael’s mum, Bernadette, told the Liverpool Echo he wanted to keep fighting for his children.

In August 2022 Michael and Lindsey got married, in an event they managed to arrange in just 48 hours. Michael died peacefully at home on March 24, 2023.

Amiyra Bader, 35, one of Michael’s closest friends, spoke of how he loved his family, wife and two little girls “more than anything”. She said: “Michael was like all of us, he loved his family, he was a simple man and didn’t want anything massive out of life. He loved his family, his wife and his girls more than anything.

“When I think about him he always had a smile on his face, he wasn’t as loud as some of us but he was quietly funny. He liked to socialise with his friends and with Michael if you were his friend you were his family. We grew up together and as we all got partners, got married and had kids our friendship group just grew. We were all like a family.”

Amiyra said the family were devastated following Michael’s death, but spoke of how “strong” they were being.

She said: “I went to go and see his mum and I was thinking about how devastated they were going to be. When I came out I couldn’t stop thinking bout how strong they are. I’d met Michael and Lyndsey’s kids and they’re just so strong and confident. I think that says a lot about how they have raised such strong girls under the circumstances.”

A GoFundMe page has been created to raise money for Michael’s funeral, which will take place at Blessed Sacrament Church on Wednesday, April 12 at noon.

The description of the fundraising page says: “On Friday 24th March we lost our dear friend Michael to a horrific battle with cancer. Michael was an absolute fighter and fought so hard until the very end. He never gave up but unfortunately his body did. We have been fundraising for a couple of years now but all funds where spent on alternative treatments for Michael.

“We want to help not only to give him the best send off that he deserves, but also to make sure his girls are looked after too. If you can please donate or even just share this link we would be truly grateful thank you so much xxx”

Michael leaves behind his devoted wide Lyndsey, his daughter’s Libby and Phoebe, his parents, brother and sisters.

To donate to Michael’s GoFundMe page click here.