A campaign to provide accommodation for a Donegal family whose 16-year-old son has just been diagnosed with cancer is bringing the entire community together.
On November 16th last Niall Gallagher went to his GP feeling unwell. Niall had been feeling very tired and low in energy which was highly unusual for him.
He then presented with some swelling on some of his organs. His doctor referred him to Letterkenny University Hospital immediately. He spent the night there in the haematology ward before being rushed to St. James’ Hospital in Dublin on Sunday 17th November.
He was diagnosed early on Monday morning with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and will be a patient on the Denis Burkitt ward for the foreseeable. Niall and his family are now facing one of the hardest journeys of their lives.
Niall is a talented football player from Malin Head. He is a sociable, smart and gentle teenager with plenty of opportunities ahead of him.
He has commenced a 3-year programme including chemotherapy for ALL. So far, he is beginning his third week of chemotherapy, steroids and other medications as well as several lumbar punctures. Niall will remain in St. James’ for up to 6 months initially. His progression will then tell the story of what will come next.
Since Niall is 16 years of age he is treated as an adult and is unable to avail of services such as The Ronald McDonald House for his families’ accommodation.
It is truly devastating what Niall is going through this right now and asking for financial assistance is not easy. Niall’s family have now secured rented accommodation close to the hospital and will move in there on the 8th December.
Unfortunately, the financial burden of this is incredible. All monies raised will help towards the rent and the long term costs of Niall’s journey to and from Dublin over the next few years. What we’re hoping to raise is just a drop in the ocean but we’re hoping to give Niall and his families some support and show them that we care.
So far in excess of a staggering €20,000 has been raised but his family will need every cent of that money and more.
Niall continues to amaze us every day with his positivity and at how well he is coping through this unexpected journey in his life. He is the strongest, bravest young man that we know and with all that he is going through he still has a smile and a great sense of humour. We know that with his strength, bravery, his determination and a lot of support he will come out the other side and beat this horrible disease.
How can you help?
1. Prayers and positivity – we ask that you join us in praying for Niall’s recovery and send him strength and positivity throughout his journey.
2. Please donate – Niall and his families would be grateful for any donations big or small. For those unable to donate through the page and wish to do so they can contact a family member or friend.
3. Share the link and story with your connections on your social media platforms.
On behalf of Niall and his families, we thank you for your prayers, your help, your generosity and your support.
Once again here is the link https://www.gofundme.com/f/niall039s-leukemia-treatment?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&fbclid=IwAR0bxzDOWq81ow5v5ISSw5iYzGGWvOu0n9O15Gwn92xAMWvusA433D7iRkY
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