Family of Derry City legend Mark Farren make public appeal

The family of Derry City legend Mark Farren have made a public appeal for help after the former Candystripes striker underwent surgery for the third time since being first diagnosed with a benign brain tumour six years ago.

In a statement released through the PFAI on the day of his 33^rd birthday, Farren's family revealed that Derry City's all-time top goalscorer had his third procedure a month ago in which surgeons removed 80-90% of a tumour.

However, the Donegal native is now exploring the possibility of undergoing specialist treatment in Germany – and Farren's family have made a plea to not only League of Ireland fans of all clubs, but also to the public at large for contributions via GoGetFunding.com in order to fund the cost of the programme.

“The invasive nature of the procedure has had a stunting effect on his speech and mobility. The biopsy which followed has indicated that the tumour is a Grade 4, meaning it’s highly aggressive,” the statement reads.

“Being no stranger to thinking outside the box, Mark is seeking medical assistance from an elite cancer centre in Germany. The six week treatment programme is his best chance of saving or at least prolonging his life. Treatment will cost approximately €30,000.

“This is the one goal with which Mark needs our help. Any contribution is greatly appreciated.”

Since going live on May 1^st, the page has already raised over £9,693 (€13,001) from 432 donations at the time of writing. The immediate response has been extraordinary.

More initiatives to raise funds by former colleagues of Farren's – including Finn Harps' Kevin McHugh, ex-Derry City Ruaidhrí Higgins and Glenavon's Ciarán Martyn – will take place over the coming weeks, including collections at various games.

Anybody wishing to contribute to the campaign can doing so by clicking here. 

From all of us on the Extratime News Team, our thoughts are with Mark and the Farren family at this difficult time. We hope Mark can overcome this battle with the same perseverance and clinical nature which he demonstrated on the pitch throughout his footballing career.