Irish teen battling brain tumour 'blown away' by support from public as €80k raised for vital treatment
More than €80,000 has been raised to ensure that a Leaving Cert student from Co Galway who is battling a brain tumour can receive life-saving treatment.In September, 17-year-old Joe Hurley, from Killimordaly, received the devastating news that he had been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour.Since his diagnosis, Joe has completed two rounds of chemotherapy in Galway, and his treatment is said to be progressing well.While battling the brain tumour, Joe has continued to show extraordinary positivity and resilience and has kept up his Leaving Certificate studies in the midst of treatment, determined not to let his diagnosis affect his future plans.The Galway native has been told by health officials that the next phase of his treatment will require a highly specialised therapy not available in Ireland.The treatment will take place at either The Christie Hospital in Manchester or Essen Hospital in Germany, with the final decision to be made by his consultant.This treatment is expected to begin in early 2026 and will involve Joe spending 8–12 weeks abroad, accompanied by family members who will support him throughout this critical period.The teen's friends and family have come together to launch a fundraiser to raise money so Joe can receive for his specialised treatment.The funds raised will cover travel, accommodation, and daily living expenses, with any remaining amount donated to a local children's cancer charity.A message shared on the GoFundMe page states: "In September 2025, 17-year-old Joe Hurley received the devastating news that he had been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour. What followed were weeks of intense medical assessments and uncertainty but also a remarkable show of strength from Joe himself."Joe’s consultant has advised that the next phase of his treatment will require a highly specialised therapy not available in Ireland."While the medical treatment itself is covered, the associated costs, travel, accommodation, and daily living expenses are significant. The financial burden on the family during this time will be substantial."The GoFundMe has already raised over €80,000, with Joe saying that he has been 'blown away' by the outpouring of support he has received.Sharing a message on the GoFundMe page, Joe wrote: "Hi everyone, I want to say a massive thank you to all of you who have donated and sent messages over the past week."The support has been unreal. I am honestly blown away. It means the world to me and my family."Looking into the next round of treatment, knowing so many people are behind me has given me a serious lift. Thank you for standing with me and my family. I appreciate every last one of you."Those who would like to make a donation can visit the GoFundMe page here.Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
