He might not always be the most-likeable man on the RTÉ GAA panel but some people could change their mind after seeing a very generous side to him this week.
GAA pundit Joe Brolly is recovering in a London hospital after bravely donating a kidney to a seriously-ill friend.
The Gaelic Football analyst donated the organ to a fellow clubman from St Brigid’s GAC in Belfast. Shane Finnegan, 40, from Belfast, also coached alongside Brolly.
The transplant took place on Wednesday and the two men are now recovering in Guy’s Hospital in London.
Yesterday, the former Derry star told the Irish Independent it has been “an honour” to have helped.
“I’m honoured to have been in the position to help Shane,” Brolly said.
“He’s been waiting for a transplant for over six years and when I heard that the only possibility of one was through a live donor I contacted his medical team.
“And, of course, in my considered opinion it’s all going according to plan and thankfully the doctors concur.”
All smiles: Joe and his friend Shane Finnegan post-operation.
Mr Finnegan said he was overwhelmed by the gesture.
“Joe’s altruism is overwhelming and, of course, there are no words to thank him or his family for his wonderful gift,” he said.
“I know it’s early days, but I’m so relieved that it’s all going well for both of us so far,” he added.
Brolly, a father of five, works as a barrister who specialises in criminal matters but said he does not expect to return to work until the New Year.
Joe and fellow sports analyst Pat Spillane (left) are regularly at each other’s throats on TV.
A friend of Joe’s said he had quietly been making arrangements for the operation and preparing himself for some time.
“He’s known about this for a while but he didn’t want it made public. Joe is a very good friend who would do anything to help his friends.
“To do this for a family member is one thing but to do it for a friend brings it to a whole other level.”
This act of bravery could soften people’s attitudes towards the Derryman…
