Huge response to fundraiser for Tyrone mascot with rare brain tumour
March 04, 2026
A Tyrone fan flies their flag. ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo.
There has been an incredible response to a GoFundMe appeal which was set up to support an eight-year-old Tyrone boy and his family.
Odhrán McGirr, who had the honour of leading out the Tyrone team before their Allianz Football League win over Offaly in Dungannon last Saturday evening, was diagnosed in January 2025 with an aggressive High Grade Glioblastoma which is an extremely rare and difficult-to-treat brain tumour. The GoFundMe page, which is backed by Odhrán’s club Errigal Ciarán and Tyrone GAA, has raised almost £137,000 since it was created last week.
“Over the course of the past 12 months, Odhrán has undergone two surgeries, intensive radiotherapy and chemotherapy to try to slow down the progression of the tumour. Unfortunately, we have now reached a point in the journey where our treatment options are limited,” a GoFundMe post read.
“We are looking to fundraise to support Paddy, Catriona, Ruairí, Saoirse and in particular Odhrán through this next stage so they can make the most out of time together as a family and enable them to provide whatever supports and treatment Odhrán now requires. We are incredibly grateful to Odhran’s medical team, support workers and external organisations who care for him and will always be thankful for their kindness during this difficult time.”
In paying tribute to the Ballygawley youngster, Tyrone GAA said: "Odhrán has shown remarkable bravery, undergoing surgeries, radiotherapy and chemotherapy with incredible courage. Through it all, Odhrán continues to inspire everyone around him with his strength, determination and positivity - living in the moment and taking each day as it comes.
"Yesterday was a moment of pure pride, courage and inspiration for everyone in O’Neill Park. If you would like to support the McGirr Family at this time, please take a look at the GoFundMe page - https://gofundme.com/f/support-for-odhran
"The Red Hand family stands with Odhrán and the entire McGirr family."
TweetYesterday in Dún Geanainn, one very special young Red Hand led Tyrone onto the field.
— Tyrone GAA (@TyroneGAALive) March 1, 2026
Eight-year-old Odhrán McGirr from Ballygawley proudly walked at the front of the Tyrone Senior Football team - a moment that will stay with everyone who witnessed it.
A talented young… pic.twitter.com/WJj41EiE3A
