A Dublin community has rallied together to raise money for a local 17-year-old boy battling brain cancer.
The Sheriff Street community are asking people to donate to a GoFundMe in support of Cian Rooney who is currently undergoing brain cancer treatment.
Thomas Daly from Sheriff Youth Club told Dublin Live that there is 'huge rehabilitation' ahead for the talented footballer, but that he is 'keeping strong'.
He said: "The coach said to us that one of the lads had a major operation for two tumours on the brain.
“Cian is a good young fella, he’s still in school. He’ll be doing the Leaving Cert, it’s horrific for his family, the community and the football.
“There’s huge rehabilitation needed, he has a lot to go through.
"It’s unbelievable for a young lad, but he is keeping strong.
“He’s been with the club all his life, since he was four years old, he’s 17 now.
“We want to get people to help. This puts everything into perspective. We’ve to push the GoFundMe. We will be running a five-a-side football league, a big walk, a cycle - everyone is driving in behind this.”
Mr Daly believes that any donation will get the ball rolling and make a difference.
He said: “It’s horrific. The little things you moan about, you realise it’s nothing really compared to this. We’re all numb because he’s a good young fella.
“Sport is great, it brings out the best in communities and they help people when they’re down. Everyone will be very grateful for any support even if it’s a euro, a fiver, anything at all will help.
“We still have hope. There’s always light at the end of the tunnel. We want to make as much as we can for the family and make sure they’re well looked after.”
Little Treasures Creche on Sheriff Street set up the GoFundMe. Cian's mother works at the creche.
Their post reads: “Cian is an incredible young man. At 17, he is full of all of the joys and ambition that you would expect of a young man his age.
“He is a footballer with Sheriff YC, attends St Joseph's School in Fairview where he will this year do the Leaving Cert and has lots of friends and family who adore him.
“Earlier this year, Cian was diagnosed with a form of brain cancer. He is stronger than his diagnosis but we need to support Cian and his family at this difficult time.
“So we are going to fundraise to ensure Cian has all of the necessities he will need throughout this journey.”
All funds raised will go to support Cian and his family during this very difficult time.
The community is hoping that the public can give their support. You can donate here.
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