Mayo's Pearce and Cian Hanley have been granted compassionate leave by their respective AFL clubs the Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions to be with their younger brother Tom, who is battling cancer.

The two clubs have issued a joint-statement which reads: "The Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions Football Clubs wish to advise that Pearce and Cian Hanley will return to Ireland to deal with a private family matter. The Suns and Lions will provide all the support the family needs during this challenging time."

Pearce and Cian were Brisbane Lions club-mates before former Mayo senior Pearce recently joined the Gold Coast Suns. Cian played his first game for the Lions at the weekend after an injury layoff against the Suns in a North Eastern AFL pre-season match, which was also Pearce's debut for his new club. 

According to reports in the Australian media, Cian was spared news of Tom's deteriorating condition until after the match. 

 

This one's for my buddy Tommy Hanley. Just found out he's a huge fan, 15yrs old, living in Ireland and battling stage 4 cancer. I've never met you, but I already know so much about you and can tell you're an awesome, honorable and strong young man. Make sure you eat up dude and get your rest. Those two things are gonna help you stay strong during this fight. Stay being the coolest kid and always keep in mind how much you inspire all your family and friends - including me. We're all pulling for you Tommy! Stay strong and Merry Christmas to you and your family ~ Uncle Rock aka Dwanta Claus

A post shared by therock (@therock) on Dec 15, 2016 at 11:54am PST

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