Fight Of His Life: UFC Make Irish Teen Cancer Patient’s Dream Come True

Boston was overrun with green, white and gold at the weekend for the UFC Fight Night, a night that saw Ireland’s ‘Notorious’ Conor McGregor, Cathal Pendred and Paddy Holohan all win their respective fights. As the three swept the boards, it was a very special occasion for one other Irishman. Dubliner Jay Mooney enjoyed a once in a lifetime trip to Boston and his friend Mark Grundy got in touch with our brothers over at JOE.ie to share his incredible story. At the age of 19, Jay’s mother Sabrina battled with Meningitis and suffered a stroke. Shortly after giving birth to her son, Sabrina was then diagnosed with Epilepsy. Throughout the years Jay has cared for his Mum, helping her overcome seizures, as well as helping out with his younger sibling Lexie while his father worked. His efforts and kindness earned him Ireland's Young Carer of the Year in 2014, recognition he deserved. In July of last year, the 17-year-old received life-changing news when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma - cancer of the lymph tissue. The teenager completed intense chemotherapy sessions a short time before Christmas in a bid to fight the cancer. Hoping to do something that his son would never forget, Jay's Dad organised a dream trip away. Pulling out all of the stops, Jay flew to Boston for the event and got to meet stars McGregor, Pendred and Holohan to name just a few. UFC head honcho Dana White gave up his seat for the night just so Jay could enjoy the event at the edge of the octagon. Here’s how Jay’s time at the UFC Fight Night in Boston panned out… (Watch out for one very famous face). Some free gear from the UFC. UFC President Dana White gave Jay his seat for the night - best seat in the house. Meeting Dana backstage Jay hanging out with Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone Jay and SBG coach John Kavanagh. The Notorious and Jay backstage. Jay and Hollywood legend Mickey Rourke. Paddy Holohan and Jay. Jay and Cathal Pendred. Jay and Conor McGregor after his win over Dennis Siver. People have often argued that MMA is a slightly ‘barbaric’ sport, but this show of support proves that its participants and organisers are nothing but absolute gentlemen. A massive tip of the hat to Jay's father and those who made this possible.