By Sean Moriarty

The death of Rathmore man David Saunders on Monday was felt across the locality and further afield.

HERO: David Saunders (right) played for Cork City FC and represented Ireland in the Amputee Soccer World Cup in Mexico in 2014. Photo:Sportsfile

His life story is one of bravery and adversity, one he faced with dignity and courage.

After surviving cancer twice in childhood, he sadly succumbed to his third bout earlier this week.

David lost a leg to the disease in childhood but he never allowed it get him down.

David (40), was born in Bealnadeega, an idyllic location between Rathmore and Barraduff. He attended Meentogues National School and later Pobal Scoil Sliabh Luachra in Rathmore.

“The school community is deeply saddened by the passing of past pupil David Saunders who was the special guest and inspirational speaker at our School Awards in 2016,” school principal Denis Kerins said.

Despite his disability, David climbed The Paps, cycled the byroads and upon leaving school he qualified as a teacher.

He also became a prolific member of the Irish Amputee Football Team.

In November 2014 he was a key member of the Irish team that participated in the Amputee Soccer World Cup in Mexico.

“Everyone in Amputee Football will be devastated to hear the sad news that one of our warriors has sadly passed away. David Saunders was a truly inspirational player, and a gentleman to anyone who was graced to meet him,” said an Irish Amputee Football Association statement.

David also played for Cork City FC.

He was married to Anne-Marie who is from Castleisland and they have two children, Jack (4) and Aoibhín (2).

A proud Kerry man, he set up home in Carrigaline in Cork where he was a much loved teacher in Douglas Rochestown Educate Together National School. He lived cancer free for 26 years and in that time became a motivational speaker.

However, the illness returned and a GoFundMe page raised €171,752 to support him and his family. “This time around my prognosis is a lot bleaker," he said less than a month ago.

David passed away peacefully in the presence of his loving family. He is survived by his wife Anne-Marie and children, parents John and Anne, his three siblings Emer, Michelle and Sinead, and extended family and friends.

Requiem Mass will take place on Friday at St Joseph’s Church Rathmore followed by private cremation afterwards.