Ex-Irish League goalkeeper opens up on cancer battle as clubs send support

A former Irish League goalkeeper has opened on his cancer battle which he has described as his "greatest challenge". Michael Argyrides - who played for clubs including Larne and Glentoran - was told he had a rare form of leukaemia in September.

The 25-year-old - who is back living in his native Canada - underwent 30 days of chemotherapy and says he now lives "one day at a time".

Argyrides shared his journey on his Instagram account, with a number of former clubs and teammates offering their support.

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He posted: "It’s only fitting that on the day of the Archangel St. Michael that I share my story and my new journey. This is by far greatest team I have ever been apart of. And the greatest challenge I have had to face in my life. I have long road to go but together anything is possible.

"I don’t really have the right way to say this. But WE put cancer into remission. WE did it together. This truly took a village. God, My Ama, my family, and all those behind the scenes sending love and extra prayers and the countless support from everyone has truly helped in putting this cancer into remission.

"In the middle of September I was diagnosed with a rare form of leukaemia present in my bone marrow. ALL; Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia which is a fast spreading blood cancer. After being transferred to princess Margaret hospital downtown Toronto, the cancer team came up with the appropriate treatment plan and worked tirelessly to provide support and aid to now fight this.

"I cannot express enough the gratitude and appreciation I have for every single staff member that had a hand to play in my recovery. Without everyone as a collective this would not be possible.

"Life can change so fast. God has a plan for you that you cannot change. Do your best every day to be the best version of yourself. Follow your faith. Believe in something greater than yourself. Live and love right now, what’s next is not promised.

"The battle has just begun fighting this cancer. And there are still markers to be achieved during my recovery process. Through Gods grace I will be cured in due time. One day at a time. Fighting the good fight. I wanted to share my story and I’m sure there will be more to come on this.

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"Everyone fights a battle. Appreciate another day of life. Appreciate that you were chosen to fight your fight.

"Lead with love and never give up. As I have completed my first phase of treatment which was 30 days of chemotherapy in hospital, I have recently transitioned to being at home and managing my new way of life.

"I felt the need to share my story and my new journey that I have ahead. Again thank you everyone. Always fight the good fight. With lots of love. Michael."

Argyrides joined Dundela when he arrived in Northern Ireland back in 2020 and joined Larne the following year. He spent a season at Inver Park before making the move to Glentoran.

During his time at the Oval he had a loan spell with Harland and Wolff Welders before making the move permanent in 2023.

Former Glentoran teammate James Singleton said: "Thinking of you pal, no bother to you!"

Larne assistant manager Gary Haveron said: "One of the most positive guys i’ve ever met... thinking about you Mikey."

Shay McCartan added: "Keep fighting Mikey, you’ve got this."

Ex-Carrick Rangers manager Stuart King replied: "You got this."

Matthew Tipton said: "Good luck Michael."

Meanwhile, Glentoran Football Club said on X: "Everyone at Glentoran stands united in support of our former goalkeeper, Michael Argyrides, as he bravely faces his battle with an aggressive form of blood cancer. Michael, you are in our thoughts and the entire Glens family is behind you every step of the way."

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