Daniel O’Donnell says wife on mend after breast cancer surgery

Daniel O’Donnell has revealed his wife Majella is on the path to recovery after being diagnosed recently with breast cancer.

The entertainer revealed Majella’s surgery went well and that she is now cancer-free.

However, Daniel (51), added that Majella will continue to have treatment.

In an interview with the Donegal Democrat, the Co Donegal entertainer said: "Thank God with early intervention and surgery the cancer is gone now, and it is a matter of further treatment."

He recalled the moment that he was told about Majella’s illness. “It is one thing reading about cancer, but it is a totally different and frightening thing when it hits your own family and the doctor delivers those words - ‘I’m sorry but your wife has breast cancer.’

“It is probably one of the most numbing experiences a man can go through. You just feel helpless,” he said.

However, the singer did add a message of hope. “It can be beaten, and I thank God that Majella is on the road to recovery.”

He thanked everyone who had sent him cards and messages during the couple’s difficult time.

“I know that Majella is going to be fine. It’s just so important to me that we will be together for a long, long time - the rest of our lives,” he said.

The singer urged both men and women to have regular check-ups, which could save their lives.

“There is hope and help for everybody and all I can say to people, both men and women, is to have regular check-ups. These can be the difference between life and death,” he said.

A close friend of the star said Majella’s operation to remove a suspected cancerous lump and lymph nodes was successful.

“They received some good news after the operation, but Majella will still have to be monitored and she will still have to have more treatment.

"However, this is a great relief for them. Like many couples across Ireland, they went through hell.

“But hopefully they can get back to living their lives to the full now and put this worrying chapter of their lives behind them,” said the friend.

The couple are currently in the southeast of Ireland, where Daniel is performing.

It is believed Majella’s treatment will last until at least the end of September, meaning she will not be able to travel to Branson in the US where Daniel has committed to a number of shows.