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26 Mar 2026

'Blown away'- Young girl (22) with rare illness receives huge sum through Go Fund Me

A 22-year-old Irish girl has been battling a rare and aggressive tumour for the last five years and is in urgent need of life-saving surgery

'Blown away'- Young girl (22) with rare illness receives huge sum through Go Fund Me

Maeve Duffy Go Fund Me

Reporter:

Rachel Kavanagh

08 Jul 2025 3:30 PM

22-year-old Irish girl Maeve Duffy has reached out to thank the generous people of Ireland who have collectively raised nearly €80,000 in less than a month for her extremely expensive surgery.
Maeve has been bravely battling a rare and aggressive tumor for the last five years called a facial nerve schwannoma.
A Go Fund Me was set up by Maeve's family members as she is now in urgent need of life-saving surgery costing over €107,000.
The Go Fund Me was set up on June 19 and has raised €76,554 so far.
Maeve has tried every treatment available in Ireland, including radiation and years of delays and consultations, and now her doctors have told her that the tumor is inoperable here.
Meanwhile, Maeve lives with relentless pain, nausea, dizziness, and significant hearing loss. Despite everything, she remains her kind, funny, and fiercely determined self.
Specialists at the International Neuroscience Institute in Hanover, Germany, renowned for treating complex cases like Maeve’s, can help. Their surgical team has the expertise to give Maeve a real chance at recovery. 
"We’re doing everything we can to raise the funds to get Maeve to Germany for this life-changing surgery. If you’re able to donate—no matter how big or small—it would mean the world to Maeve and all of us who love her," The Go Fund Me said.
In an update on the Go Fund Me page, Meave's family said: "We’re completely overwhelmed—thank you.
We just wanted to say the biggest, most heartfelt thank you from Maeve, Siobhán, Peter, Tom, and Aidan. 
"We’ve been blown away by the generosity, kind messages, and support from friends, family, and strangers. It means the world to see so many people rally around Maeve; it's been incredibly moving and uplifting during a tough time. Your kindness is making a real difference, and we’re so grateful. With love and thanks, Maeve & family".

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