Northern Ireland

'What an unbelievably tough wee boy' - Young son of former Donegal footballer completes leukaemia treatment

Johnny McLoone walking out with his young son Danny (left) and Danny with Johnny, mum Geraldine and sisters Sarah and Eve.
Johnny McLoone walking out with his young son Danny (left) and Danny with Johnny, mum Geraldine and sisters Sarah and Eve. Johnny McLoone walking out with his young son Danny (left) and Danny with Johnny, mum Geraldine and sisters Sarah and Eve.

THE young son of a former Donegal footballer has been praised for his bravery after completing his leukaemia treatment.

Five-year-old Danny McLoone from Killybegs was first diagnosed in June 2020, requiring three difficult years of treatment at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital in Crumlin.

This week, his family shared the heartwarming news that Danny has finally been given the all clear and completed his treatment.

His father, Johnny McLoone, is a three-time Donegal SFC winner with clubside Naomh Conaill of Glenties, as well as having played for Donegal.

He now runs a butcher’s business in Killybeggs, and posted a family video of Danny’s inspiring journey along with his mother Geraldine and sisters Sarah and Eve.

Read more

  • Northern Ireland Cancer Experience Panel win national award
  • Cancer patient warns of 'grave repercussions' for people's health unless DUP restore powersharing

“Just over three years from Danny being diagnosed with leukaemia we have finally arrived at the point of him getting to ring the bell in Crumlin to signal the end of his treatment,” the post read.

“We want to thank everyone for all your love and support throughout this tough time, especially our friends and families who in the toughest of times were always there for us.

"Our girls Sarah and Eve, who at times had to show maturity beyond their years, and whose love for their brother was immense.”

Danny McLoone has completed three-years of leukaemia treatment.
Danny McLoone has completed three-years of leukaemia treatment. Danny McLoone has completed three-years of leukaemia treatment.

Praising their son, the family added: “What an unbelievably tough wee boy who has amazed us every step of the way.

“He accepted everything that came at him and taught us all so many lessons along this path that we found ourselves on.

“We are so proud of him as we look forward to the next chapter in our lives.”

Among hundreds sharing messages of support online, one commented: “So delighted to hear this fantastic news.

“Danny’s an amazing wee lad with an amazing family around him.”