Gone but never forgotten.
It may be hard to believe but it is 12 years today since Cormac McAnallen passed away.
The Tyrone All-Ireland winner died as a result of SADS, with his death causing a shockwave across the entire GAA community, north and south.
12years since the passing of Cormac McAnallen. Never forgotten. 🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/fI9tfZA1UQ
— Alana McPhillips (@ah241) March 2, 2016
He had just helped his county to a first ever All-Ireland title in 2003, when he died at the age of just 24.
However, on the anniversary of his death, his family have spoken out about how some good has come from their son’s tragically young passing.
In the wake of his death, his family set up The Cormac Trust, to help people who have been affected by a sudden passing and inform the public about SADS.
His mother Bridget spoke to Belfast Live, and explained how the family have gained comfort from helping others.
“I really do think over the last 12 years Cormac has helped us, his spirit has helped us in doing our best to inform the public about SADS.
“SADS was a condition completely unknown to us and the public at that time, and we have done our best to spread awareness through The Cormac Trust, to advise people to get screened, to provide defibrillator’s to various sporting clubs from GAA to Cricket and Rugby clubs, and to train people how to use them.”
The Cormac Trust thank Stephen & Yvonne McCoy for raising funds for The Cormac Trust & a Defibrillator. Legends! pic.twitter.com/bXEfrmBaIv
— The Cormac Trust (@cormactrust1) October 26, 2015
The trust has visited GAA clubs and non-sports organisations across the country to inform them of the condition that took Cormac’s life. They have also helped provide 150 defibrillators.
His mother feels that the late Eglish clubman would be proud of their efforts.
“A lot of people in these circumstances will try to do something to help the public, to stop other people having to endure the same experience and to stop people dying from the same conditions.
“We’ve done that, and we’re proud of that, and you really feel that in a way, we can console ourselves that his death has not been in vain and has helped other people.”
