Fundraiser launched for artist manager and Merchy Christmas founder Conor Cusack ahead of major surgery

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help support Conor Cusack – a well-known figure in the Irish music industry – and his family, ahead of his major surgery this week.

Conor was diagnosed with stage IV thymic carcinoma, a rare form of cancer, in March 2024, aged 32.

"At the time of diagnosis, Conor was told that his cancer was inoperable and incurable and could only be treated systemically with chemotherapy," the GoFundMe description reads. "Conor has undergone 7 rounds of chemotherapy since then and his illness has remained stable.

"Last year, Conor met with a leading surgeon on the Mater's Cardiothoracic team in Dublin. This surgeon took a special interest in his case and began speaking with their fellow surgeons globally, researching cutting-edge procedures which might improve his outcome. This resulted in an introduction to Prof. Ceulemans at UZ Leuven, Belgium who has pioneered a new surgical technique paired with a novel heated chemotherapy (HITHOC) administered directly into the chest cavity following the surgery. This procedure has been drastically improving survival outcomes among his patients.

"After a meeting last week with the Leuven team, Conor has been scheduled for emergency surgery on May 28th. Four years ago, this surgery would not have been possible with Conor’s case."

The GoFundMe goes on to note that the "surgery will most likely involve the full removal of his right lung & pericardium, major reconstruction of his superior vena cava and other blood vessels in the chest as well as potentially his heart" – with recovery time "possibly stretching to six months".

"The surgery costs themselves are covered by the HSE. However, Conor must cover the costs of his and his family’s stay in Belgium for at least 6 weeks before he is fit to fly. He will also need to return to Belgium regularly for follow-up scans & reviews for at least 10 years. This presents a significant financial burden for Conor and his family.

"The money we hope to raise will cover expenses to ensure Conor is comfortable and supported by his family."

The GoFundMe has already raised over €23,500, out of a target of €45,000.

Conor will be known to many in Irish music as the mastermind behind Merchy Christmas, the annual music merch market in The Grand Social. He also manages Saint Sister, and is a founding member of the Dublin bands SPIES and DIVIL.

You can support the GoFundMe campaign here.