Tributes flow following the passing of Tanya Dunne - described as 'an inspiration'

There is huge sadness in south Donegal and west Fermanagh following the death of Tanya Dunne (née O’Shea).

She had been battling colorectal (bowel) cancer and had undergone intensive treatment in Mexico last year after being told that chemotherapy was no longer working.

A massive fundraising campaign had been underway to fund further treatment in Mexico, with phenomenal support from the Bundoran, Kinlough, Ballyshannon and Belleek communities in particular.

Individuals and groups, including GAA clubs, had organised fundraising events to help give Tanya every chance at overcoming the disease. Sadly, it wasn’t to be, and she passed away after a brave and dignified battle.

Tanya will be greatly missed in her native Belleek where she played football for Erne Gaels, in Kinlough and Bundoran, and in Ballyshannon where she worked and played football for Aodh Ruadh. 

"Aodh Ruadh are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tanya Dunne today, well before her time," read a statement from Aodh Ruadh.

"A native of Belleek, Tanya made her way to Father Tierney Park and became a huge part of ladies football in Ballyshannon for many years following. Although she had a gentle and easy-going temperament, she was a different proposition on the pitch. As a player, she was a powerful, rangey, athletic midfielder, and she drove Aodh Ruadh to many memorable days over the course of her career. The highlight on the pitch was winning the county intermediate title in 2010 against Malin.

"Her leadership qualities were acknowledged when she was named team captain for the 2014 season. She also collected the ladies player of the year awards in 2015 and 2018. Tanya was one of the driving forces behind the Realt Ruadh amalgamation which brought together Ballyshannon and Bundoran and again played a central role as they won the 2016 Division 2 title.

"Tanya had a great interest in the developing young players, and managed the minor ladies team in 2018. Tanya didn't confine her activities to the playing field though and was Ladies Treasurer for a number of years and also had a stint as Ladies PRO.

"Tanya could be relied on to roll her sleeves up for a fund raiser too, and did a memorable turn in the Snapper for the OsKaRs in 2019. Many other voluntary organisation in the locality can also attest Tanya's open-hearted willingness to make her utmost contribution to the whole community.

"The depth of fondness and affection she was held in was reflected in the huge up-welling of support as she battled illness, a battle she fought with the resolution, determination and fortitude which typified her in every facet of her tragically short life.
The grief at her passing will be felt far and wide.

"We extend our sincere sympathies to Tanya's whole family, and her wide circle of friends at this desperately sad time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal."

Tanya will long be remembered for her radiant smile, her warmth, positivity and courage, and for the inspirational way in which she faced the challenges of the last few years.

An Erne Gaels clubmate said: “Tanya was a wonderful woman, beautiful inside and out. She fought such a great fight. Even though we knew it was coming, her death was still a terrible shock. Condolences to her family at this very sad time.”

Predeceased by her father Martin, Tanya is survived by her mother Bernie, her beloved husband Rory Dunne and a wide circle of family and friends.

"There are no words to express the sadness and sense of loss among our community following the news today of the sad  passing of our Underage Ladies Coach Tanya Dunne,” read a statement from Bundoran GAA club.

“Tanya's  courageous  battle against her illness over the last few years was an inspiration to all those around her. May we  express our sincere sympathy to her husband Rory and the extended Dunne and O'Shea families. May Tanya's kind and gentle soul rest in eternal peace.”