Tributes have poured in after a young boy from Meath who passed away following a short battle with a brain tumour.
Zak Moran, aged 11, from Silverlawns in Navan, was diagnosed with a tumour on his brain stem in May 2021. Zak underwent surgery soon after but unfortunately, only two thirds of the tumour was removed.
He was descried as a "warrior" who faced his illness with "with courage and determination beyond his 11 years".
Zak passed away peacefully, at home on Monday, with his loving family, after a short illness, which he bore with great courage and bravery.
Zak was an avid sports fan and played GAA and played both football and hurling in the under 12s team for his local GAA club Navan O'Mahony's.
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Navan O'Mahony's released the following statement on Twitter this evening: "We are heartbroken to have lost our warrior Zak"
"Please keep the Moran family in your thoughts at this time."
His death notice on rip.ie reads: "Funeral arrangements later. Zak will be sadly missed by all in the GAA community. Donations, if desired, can be made to The Irish Cancer Society."
A heartbreaking description on an idonate page to raise funds for Zak's care explained how his life changed in such a short time last year.
It read: "In the space of just one month Zak’s life has changed from playing all of his sports, Fortnite, and Lego to residing within the hospital.
"He requires a chair for mobility and round the clock care. He is strong, resilient and brave and has faced his illness with courage and determination beyond his 11 years."
Further tributes to the young boy were written on rip.ie as one person said: "Absolutely heartbreaking to hear this news. So very sorry to the Moran family on the loss of their beautiful, brave , courageous boy. We will always remember Zak and his courage. May Zak rest in peace."
Another said: "My deepest condolences to you all at this sad time. Zak was a super brave boy who touched many hearts. May he get the best bed up in heaven and he will be the brightest star in the sky tonight and every other night. May you find the courage to help each other at this sad time."
While a third said: " God comfort Zak’s parents, family & all those who mourn the loss of this beautiful little angel. A truly special little boy who was incredibly kind & welcoming to my son when he played hurling with O’Mahonys, His kindness will never be forgotten. Fly high little man. x"
