Gormley told The GAA Social that he is not afraid of dying, having first broken the shocking news of his diagnosis to the Trillick players after their 0-12 to 1-8 county final defeat to Errigal.

“I was embarrassed to tell you the truth, having stood up after the game and been asked about the pressures of managing your own club and the pressure you put yourself under,” McGinley said.

“Then when that news starts leaking Friday night, let’s talk about putting things into perspective.

“We were in the middle of the celebrations, so it made you think. Yes, you still wanted to enjoy the night, but you realized that there is so much more to life.”

Both former Tyrone midfielders who graced the county jersey with distinction, and two former Antrim coaches, Gormley and McGinley also share the common bond of returning to where it all began by managing their own local club.

Gormley led Trillick to the Tyrone title in 2023 in his first year in charge and McGinley did the same with Errigal in 2024.

“I was very proud of the way the (2024) final was played between us and Trillick because what Jody has done with that team and what he has instilled in those boys is extraordinary,” Gormley added.

“That’s why we knew we had to reach such a peak against them.”

Gormley said Errigal’s boss was well respected long before news of his illness came last week.

“Jody would have been admired anyway for the way he ran his business.

“He had some brilliant days in a Tyrone shirt and as a manager he has also featured on the Tyrone club scene.

“With Trillick, he has also stamped his authority within Tyrone club football and raised the bar significantly, something we had previously struggled to match, and it took all of our effort to get over the line.

“Everyone thinks of him, everyone admires him, to be honest, and everyone at Errigal is very aware of what the Trillick club is seeing. Please God, he is handling it fantastically well and we send him all the best desires.”