Daniel Greer, the courageous 16-year-old Newry boy who spent more than two years battling Leukaemia, has died.
He passed away at his home this morning (September 20), surrounded by his parents and brother.
Daniel had faced a long road with his Leukaemia diagnosis, undergoing chemotherapy, three complicated stem cell transplants, emergency surgeries to deal with complications from treatment and several prolonged hospital stays.
The news of Daniel’s passing was released in a statement by his family on the ‘Do it for Daniel’ Facebook page.
It read: “We are devastated to have to tell you that our beautiful boy Daniel passed away at home in the early hours of this morning, surrounded by his family. Our little warrior fought so hard to live, having battled Leukaemia for more than two years.
“We are so grateful for all the support of everyone who helped to try to save him – from his amazing medical team, his wonderful, caring nurses, all the charities that stepped in to support his family during his long illness and, of course, to the thousands of people who signed up as bone marrow/stem cell donors in response to our desperate pleas for help.
“It is so hard to accept that he was taken from us at the age of just 16. But we know Daniel is up there at the gates, probably giving cheek to St Peter already! See you soon darling xox.”
After ringing the bell at Manchester Hospital in May to signal the end of his treatment, Daniel and his family were elated.
However, two months later (July 25) they received the heartbreaking news that Daniel’s Leukaemia had returned.
As Daniel was a huge fan of live music, the family expressed their thanks to GAA President Jarlath Burns and all those who helped ensure Daniel did not miss out on the gig and was able to enjoy the show safely, making memories with his loved ones.
Daniel will repose at his home, 11 Dunbrae, Chancellors Road on Saturday and Sunday from 1pm – 8pm.
The funeral will be held on Monday at 11.15am for 12 noon Requiem Mass in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Cloughoge. Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
It is requested that the house be strictly private this evening, Friday, and the morning of funeral.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu if desired to Angel Wishes online at https://danielgreer.muchloved.com or c/o Patricia Heaney, Heaney Keenan Funeral Directors, 53 Patrick Street, Newry, BT35 8EB.
