Fifteen months ago I never thought I'd be playing in Croke Park, let alone going up the steps at Croke Park, or watching Brendan lift up the cup.
For some players, the champions visit to Crumlin children's hospital puts things in perspective. It's a chance to give back and brighten the lives of children who have had some very difficult times in their short lives.
For Noel McGrath, he was able to see how far he'd come in 15 months. It's quite a journey from beating cancer to All Ireland champion. The Tipperary star was able to reflect, and there were times when he didn't believe it was possible. He didn't even believe he'd be able to play in Croke Park again.
It was tough for me for a few months in 2015, but look I'm just delighted to be back playing and delighted to be on the pitch. I was just delighted to be able to get back playing to whatever level I could get back to - I wasn't sure what that would be.
There's people affected with a lot different and worse things than I was. I was lucky and was well looked after and got back to good health in a short space of time.
It's amazing what a bit of perspective does for you.
It's been quite a journey for Noel McGrath, and if Tipperary have their way - he'll be part of their young team as they seek to back it up in 2017.
See Also: You'd Want A Heart Of Stone Not To Be Delighted For Noel McGrath
Photo by Cody Glenn/Sportsfile
