John is the boy for lollipop fundraiser

MANCHESTER United and Irish soccer star John O’Shea could find himself christened ‘My Boy Lollipop’ after taking time out from his busy schedule yesterday to help launch the 3rd annual Lollipop Day.

The fundraising event, which is organised by the Oesophageal Cancer Fund and takes place on February 27-28, aims to highlight the dangers posed by the relatively little known form of cancer.

The organisation was established three years ago by the friends of Dublin woman, Lucilla Hyland who died tragically within a few months of learning she had contracted the illness.

“Our main aim is to raise awareness of the disease but of course, we also hope to raise money to fund ongoing research and treatment for people with oesophageal cancer,” said OCF chairperson, Noelle Ryan.

O’Shea. who is in Ireland for tomorrow’s friendly soccer international against Brazil, said he became involved with the charity as a result of the disease affecting a family friend in his home city of Waterford.

“I became aware of oesophageal cancer when one of my former teachers, Jack Kennedy, from Ferrybank National School learnt he had got it. Thankfully he’s cured now,” the player said.

It is estimated that over 400 new cases of the disease, which affects both sexes, are diagnosed each year on average.

Oesophageal cancer claims over 300 lives in Ireland annually with only 20% of sufferers alive 12 months after the initial diagnosis.

“We believe oesophageal cancer is as common as breast cancer. However, it has a higher mortality rate even though early detection normally results in successful treatment through a combination of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery,” Ms Ryan said.

She encouraged anyone who experienced problems in swallowing to seek an urgent check-up from their GP.

“If difficulty swallowing is accompanied by weight loss, it should be investigated immediately,” said Ms Ryan. Other symptoms associated with oesophageal cancer include unexplained hiccups, chronic heartburn and a pain between the shoulder blades.

The OCF is hoping to surpass the success of last year’s Lollipop Day which raised over €154,000 for the charity.

Meanwhile, O’Shea chose his words carefully when questions about manager Alex Ferguson’s ongoing row with Manchester United shareholders, John Magnier and JP McManus were raised.

“I don’t think it affects anything we’re doing on the pitch,” he said.