Family of Monaghan ‘warrior’ who overcame cancer gearing up to host major charity fundraiser
Brave Caolán McAree has successfully overcome cancer in a battle his family now want to repay three children's charities for.
All eyes will be on Monaghan this weekend and a local family’s kind-hearted efforts to raise vital funds for three charities who helped their “triumphant warrior” overcome cancer.
Caolán McAree, from Smithboro, was just one and a half years old when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Germ Cell Cancer in March 2023.
The discovery of a life-threatening tumour on his spine robbed him of his ability to walk, prompting an urgent operation on St Patrick’s Day at Temple Street Children’s Hospital to alleviate the pressure and partially remove the growth.
Just over a week later, Caolán, who turns three in July, was transferred to Crumlin Children’s Hospital to undergo an immediate course of intensive chemotherapy.
A spokesperson for the family revealed how despite facing immense physical and emotional challenges, Caolán maintained a “radiant smile, displaying remarkable tenacity, resilience, and courage throughout his ordeal”.
Over the course of five energy sapping weeks, Caolán bravely endured the gruelling nature of that treatment with unwavering strength.
Only last July, Caolán underwent his most significant surgery yet as three surgeons worked tirelessly to remove the remaining tumour, leading to weeks of anxious anticipation before medics finally gave the all-clear.
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Despite the news and with the likelihood of a multitude of follow up appointments and scans ahead, Caolán’s family are intent on repaying the “unwavering assistance” they received from Ronald McDonald House, Aoibheann’s Pink Tie and Little Blue Heroes, three children’s charities that provided much needed support during their “darkest hours”.
A truck, tractor and car run originally scheduled for earlier this month which had been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, is to take place on Sunday.
The Tractor Yard in Clones will provide the meeting point with registration getting underway from 11am ahead of a 2pm start time.
The day’s festivities will also see a raffle take place at the culmination of the event with a host of top prizes being on offer.
Prior to that, on Friday night, McCague’s Bar, Roslea is to provide the backdrop for a feast of live entertainment, featuring popular acts such as The Highstool Prophets, All Folk’d Up and Nicky Hughes.
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The evening is scheduled to get underway from 7pm in what is expected to bring large crowds and an open show of solidarity behind the McAree family.
To add to the occasion, an auction as well as a head and beard shave will also be held with all proceeds going to Tiny Troopers: Rallying for Childhood Cancer.
To donate, simply click here.
