New Dad Diagnosed with Terminal Cancer Makes Every Moment Count With His Young Son

Like many people, Jay Clark and his partner Caroline Donoghue longed to be parents. With a lot of hope and rounds of IVF treatments, they learned in 2015 that their wish had come true—they were expecting a healthy baby boy. But just three months before their son’s due date, the couple received some devastating news. After intense stomach pains and jaundice skin, Clark was diagnosed with incurable pancreatic cancer.

Some might give up hope when faced with this terminal illness, but Clark was determined to confront his cancer with dignity and live the best life possible. He and Donoghue welcomed their son Maxie on January 9, 2016 and have doted over him ever since. Despite treatments and visits to the hospital, Clark always goes home and snuggles with Maxie afterwards. The proud dad also shares in his son’s triumphs, which include swimming lessons. And although it’s still early, they have already shared their first snow and Christmas together. These moments are bittersweet for Clark (who admits he cries privately), but he finds comfort in making memories.

The family’s emotional and inspiring life journey is chronicled through the Facebook page Be more Jay. Written in the voice of Maxie, it’s a sweet tribute to Clark’s perseverance and strength.

Even in the hospital, Jay has a positive attitude.