A fundraising campaign has been launched to help a Crossmolina man get treatment for a rare form of cancer.
In August 2021 Kieran Cawley was refereeing a GAA match when he started feeling a pain in his side. He later sought medical attention as the pain was not going away.
Initial diagnosis pointed at possible gallstones, however the actuality was much worse. The pain was being caused by a blood clot in his liver due to cancer.
After undergoing multiple scans and procedures and enduring several long agonising weeks awaiting results, Kieran was finally diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called cholangio carcinoma - cancer of the bile duct, in an advanced stage.
This type of cancer is very rare and affects approximately 140 people in Ireland annually and usually in people over the age of 65.
Kieran commenced chemotherapy shortly after diagnosis in September this year. However, he became unwell in November and was admitted to hospital for a week where it was discovered that the chemotherapy had not worked.
Treatment options in Ireland are limited and therefore the family has reached out to other specialists both here in Ireland, UK and America.
Kieran is married to Marcella and they have a two and a half year old son Caolán. They have recently moved into their new house which they have built together in Crossmolina. Kieran is very active in the local community in Crossmolina, Co Mayo. He is a Gaelic Football and Rugby referee.
At his home club, Crossmolina Deel Rovers, Kieran played underage football and soccer with Kilmurry UTD. As a player, Kieran excelled at Rugby. His playing career brought him far and wide due to travel and work.
His home club and where he started was at Ballina RFC. He has also played with Coolmine RFC in Dublin and Creggs RFC. While living in the US Kieran played with the Boston Irish Wolfhounds and 2nd City Troop RFC In Philadelphia.
Kieran is a Prison Officer by profession with 13 Years service. He is currently employed in Castlerea Prison. Previously Kieran worked as a professional Chef.
His family wants to ensure that Kieran has access to the best of care. They are currently looking into treatment options abroad. Any little bit will help Kieran and his family going through this difficult time and help with the expenses they will encounter while seeking treatment abroad.
The campaign has already raised over €74,000 and you can make a donation at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-kieran-get-the-treatment-he-needs?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.
