A LITTLE girl with a big heart held the country in the palm of her hand for a few glorious moments on St Patrick’s Day when she shared the spotlight with Dr Crokes captain Johnny Buckley in Croke Park.
That magical, never to be forgotten gesture when the jubilant skipper called Amy O’Connor from her seat in the Hogan Stand to hold the Andy Merrigan Cup aloft with him was one of those moments in time that can bring the country to a standstill.
The beaming smile that lit up the face of 10-year-old Amy, from Whitebridge Manor, also illuminated Croke Park as, walking with the aid of crutches, she graciously accepted the invitation – and didn’t she just love it.
Amy, who plays underage football with Dr Crokes, has been battling with cancer for the past year but she never complains and despite her grueling treatment schedule in Crumlin, she had maintained a hugely positive attitude and is always in great form.
In March of last year Amy volunteered to have her long ponytail cut to raise funds and awareness for the Rapunzel children’s charity. Little did her family know that, just two week later, she would be diagnosed with cancer herself.
Amy’s father Brendan, a postman and fireman in Killarney, sent a message to the new All-Ireland club champions to express his gratitude for their big gesture on the day they became champions..
“Being around people who inspire, challenge and make you feel better helps brings perspective and optimism to this situation. So thanks to all at Dr Crokes for making Amy feel so special on such a big day for the club,” he said.
“When you’re dealing with cancer, a daily dose of inspiration can make a big difference in your outlook on life during your cancer journey,” he added.
Amy, dad Brendan, mum Triona and brother, Cian, are all passionate Crokes supporters and they were overjoyed to see them win the biggest prize of all and they were absolutely chuffed that the boys in black and amber were wonderful enough to remember their number one fan on the day.
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