Oisin Kiernan has been praised for his appearance on The Late Late Show, where he spoke about his battle with testicular cancer.
Kiernan appeared as part of a Daffodil Day special, where the show raised awareness as viewers contributed over €2.5 million in support for the Irish Cancer Society.
Speaking with Ryan Tubridy, the Cavan footballer spoke about discovering the illness in 2018 and the impact that his diagnosis had on himself and his teammates.
We were in the middle of the Championship. I kind of felt a lump. I said something wasn’t right. I mentioned it to Dad then – obviously he has history of it.
He said, ‘just go over to my GP’ in Coole. I went for a scan then the next day. I had to ring Donal Keogan (Castlerahan manager) and tell him I was diagnosed that morning. When Donal told the players that day and I could see the shock on their faces – that’s what really got me more, because I got a bit taken back by that. At the time, I didn’t see it as a massive deal and I saw their reaction, so I thought maybe it’s a bit bigger than it is.
Kiernan would later undergo chemotherapy treatment and was out of action during his club's Cavan county championship win in 2019. He returned to intercounty action with Cavan just six weeks after finishing chemotherapy, making his first appearance against Dublin in the National Football League. From there he went on to be a part of the Cavan side that won the 2020 Ulster title.
Kiernan has been praised for his role in raising awareness of the cancer risks associated with young men. "Check yourself and be aware of your body" was a key message he shared on the show, which also included appearances from Jedward and Westlife's Shane Filan who opened up on some of the effects that cancer has had on their families.
“It needs to be checked out, the sooner the better”@KiernanOisin talks how important it is to act immediately if you’re concerned about cancer.
If you can donate, please visit https://t.co/pmQtKo1wmC or call 1850 60 60 60.#LateLate pic.twitter.com/8c3d1QA57f— RTÉ One (@RTEOne) March 26, 2021
Oisin Kiernan was a tonic on the late late tonight, his positive attitude surely played a role in his recovery! #latelateshow #irishcancersociety
— Diarmuid Masterson (@MasterDan86) March 26, 2021
What a fine young man Oisin Kiernan is. Smart, articulate and wise. #LateLate
— Gerry Sheanon (@gerandliz) March 26, 2021
Well done Oisin Kiernan , so well spoken , great attitude. Great interview & important message for all.
— EilisMc (@eilis) March 26, 2021
Oisín Kiernan is a wonderful role model and spoke very well on the importance of men checking their testicles and taking action early. Not to mention the part he played in bringing the joy of an Ulster title to Cavan. #latelate
— Dr Michelle McMahon (@DrMMcMahonEP) March 26, 2021
Touching, engaging and honesty-laced interview with Oisin Kiernan there on The Late Late. I really felt he was worthy of an All Star last year given his performances throughout the Ulster Championship. Endlessly energetic and a brilliant scorer from range. Some man.
— Caoimhín Reilly (@CaoimhinReilly) March 26, 2021
