THE CORK AND Kilkenny senior hurling sides will renew acquaintances next week in a fundraising game for 2010 All-Ireland football winner Kieran O’Connor who is battling cancer for a third time.
A major fundraising drive over the past fortnight has seen over €300,000 donated for O’Connor and his family. A ‘Walk for Kieran’ event took place last Monday in his home club of Aghada GAA in East Cork for the footballer who was part of the Cork senior setup between 2004 and 2013.
The Cork hurling side faced Kilkenny last Saturday in a league play-off in Nowlan Park and will meet again next Wednesday in Páirc Uí Rinn with a 7.30pm throw-in time.
The proceeds of the game will go towards the fund with tickets priced at €10 (adults) and €5 (concessions). They can be purchased on the night or previously online and at participating Centra/Super Valu stores.
A bucket collection will also be taken up outside Páirc Uí Chaoimh before the Cork v Tipperary hurling championship games on 12 May while the Cork county board has also made a contribution to the Friends of Kieran fund.
Donations to the fund can be made online at https://www.gofundme.com/
“Kieran was a tower of strength on the field for many years, and I know he is dealing with his illness with the same fortitude and determination,” remarked Cork county board chairperson Tracey Kennedy.
“It can’t be an easy time for his family, but Kieran is lucky to have the love and support of Sinéad, the children and his extended family too. Our thoughts are with them all at this difficult time.
“Monday’s walk really highlighted the community aspect of the GAA, and it has been wonderful to witness the extent of the support shown for Kieran from far and wide over the past two weeks. We are hoping for a bumper crowd on 27 March to continue that support.”
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