Paul Lennon, the 60-year-old founder of the Celtic fan singing group the 'Thai Tims', has been diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour. He is now receiving palliative care at home after undergoing major brain surgery.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Earlier this year, Lennon was diagnosed with Grade 4 Glioblastoma (IDH-wildtype), an aggressive form of brain cancer. Patients with this diagnosis typically have a life expectancy of between 12 and 18 months. He underwent a craniotomy to alleviate his condition but is now unable to communicate.
The update was shared on his Facebook page by his family, who stated: “Paul Lennon is very ill with a Grade 4 Glioblastoma (IDH-wildtype) brain tumour. He underwent a craniotomy to alleviate his illness and suffering, and because of this, Paul is currently unable to use Facebook or communicate with others.”
Family's Gratitude
His family expressed deep gratitude for the support: “We would like to thank everyone for all the moral support sent his way, and we are deeply grateful to the Huddleboard and Celtic fans for never abandoning Paul and for coming together to donate towards his medical expenses. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
They added: “Throughout his life, Paul has always been dedicated to doing good deeds and helping others. May those good virtues return to watch over Paul during this incredibly difficult time.”
Charity Work with Thai Tims
For over 20 years, Lennon and his wife Pun have devoted their lives to helping children with Down’s syndrome in rural Thailand through their Good Child Foundation. The inspiration came after their son, Berni, was born with the condition. Lennon taught the children English using Celtic songs, and they became known as the Thai Tims.
Videos of the children singing Hoops favourites went viral, leading to invitations to perform at Celtic Park and appear on Sky TV's Soccer AM. The foundation has helped children who were excluded from mainstream education.
Remembering Reamonn Gormley
Lennon also worked tirelessly to keep the memory of Reamonn Gormley alive. The Celtic-daft teenager volunteered at the Good Child Foundation in 2010 and was tragically stabbed to death the following year. Lennon partnered with Blantyre Soccer Academy and organised tributes, including a charity version of 'Just Can't Get Enough' sung by the Thai Tims.
He oversaw the construction of the Reamonn Gormley Memorial Hall at the charity's school in Chanthaburi Province. The pavilion, painted in Celtic's green and white, provides a space for learning and activities. Blantyre Soccer Academy continues to raise funds through annual memorial events.
In June, Lennon shared his treatment on Facebook: “Today is chemotherapy and radiation treatment on my brain tumour. Thoughts and prayers are very much appreciated at this terrible time.” He added: “I hope all our charity efforts will look after us in these dark times.”
