Daniel O’Donnell Opens Up About His Fear of Losing Majella During Her Battle with Cancer — and the Struggles They Still Face Today
Donegal, Ireland — Beloved Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell has spoken candidly about the darkest period of his life — the moment he feared his wife Majella was going to die after being diagnosed with breast cancer. In a deeply emotional interview, the 62-year-old star revealed how the diagnosis in 2013 shook their world and how the couple continues to live with the lasting effects of that terrifying time.
“It was a terrible shock when we got the initial diagnosis,” Daniel told the Irish Sunday Mirror. “We all had this fear — was she going to die? But the medical people were very reassuring and hopeful for her, and you have to believe, ‘Yes, there’s a positive way to look at this.’ It was quite an ordeal to go through, and not everyone is as lucky as we were.”
Majella O’Donnell, now 59, received the all-clear in August 2013, but she has admitted that even years later, she still lives with a lingering fear that the disease might return. Despite her strength and openness about her journey, she has also battled depression — a struggle that Daniel says he has learned he cannot “fix,” no matter how much he wants to help.
“You just have to be there for her,” Daniel explained gently. “You can’t fix depression for anybody — it’s very hard to understand when you don’t have it. Thank God I’ve never had it, but I’ve learned that sometimes the best thing you can do is simply stand beside the person you love.”
The couple, who have long been admired for their honesty and resilience, faced the cancer diagnosis with courage, faith, and unity. A devout Catholic, Daniel admitted that his faith was tested during those difficult months. “At that time, people were praying — and it certainly doesn’t hurt,” he said. “A lot of the time when you’re in trouble yourself, it’s hard to pray. That’s why I think it’s so important that others pray for you. When people need a prayer, it’s lovely that you can pray for them.”
In the years since her recovery, Majella has dedicated much of her life to helping others facing mental health challenges. In 2014, she founded Donegal Mind Wellness, an organization aimed at promoting understanding and support for those dealing with depression and anxiety. Her openness has inspired countless people across Ireland to speak more freely about mental health and to seek help when needed.
Daniel, who has stood faithfully beside his wife through every stage of her journey, says that her bravery continues to inspire him. “Majella has always been strong,” he said. “Even when she’s struggling, she still finds ways to help others. She’s an amazing woman, and I’m so proud of her.”
The couple’s story — one of love, endurance, and faith — has resonated deeply with fans around the world. Married for over two decades, Daniel and Majella O’Donnell have weathered both joy and sorrow with the same quiet grace that has made them one of Ireland’s most beloved couples.
Though Majella continues to live with the fear of recurrence, Daniel remains her constant source of comfort. Their marriage, built on trust and deep companionship, stands as a testament to resilience — a reminder that love doesn’t erase pain, but it gives it meaning.
Today, both Daniel and Majella use their platform not just to entertain, but to inspire — turning personal hardship into hope for others. “Life brings challenges,” Daniel reflected, “but we’ve learned to face them together. You hold on to faith, to love, and to the people who stand beside you. That’s what gets you through.”
For fans who have followed their journey, it’s clear that Daniel and Majella’s bond has only grown stronger through the storms — proving that even in the hardest battles, love remains the greatest healer of all.