REPUBLIC of Ireland captain Seamus Coleman has stepped up with another stunning charity gesture.
Killybegs man Coleman has pledged €15,000 to the ‘Do It For Dan’ fundraiser – which is aiming to raise €2million for Laois tot Dan Donoher who needs crucial medical treatment in America.
So far, the fundraiser has lifted almost €600,000 of the target.
In December, Dan was diagnosed with a rare genetic neuromuscular disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1 and scoliosis.
The life expectancy of an SMA type 1 child is 18-24 months.
“The day he was diagnosed is a day that we will never forget, our whole world came crashing down,” his parents, Niall and Aisling, said.
“Our hearts were broken. Like all parents, you have so many hopes and dreams for your children. Dan is a funny, bubbly little boy who has such a twinkle in his eye. He is such a happy and brave boy despite all this. We are so proud of him.”
On the 7th January 2020, he began a new medication called Spinraza. This is the only available treatment in Ireland for Dan. Spinraza does not cure SMA type 1 but can delay or reduce the symptoms. A ground breaking treatment called Zolgensma, which is currently only available in USA and costs 2.1 million dollars for a once off infusion.
His parents said: “With this treatment we as parents could hope that one day our son Dan could help his Daddy on the farm, play fetch with his dog Bobby, join his friends outside and simply pick up that yellow ball.”
New Ireland manager Stephen Kenny confirmed yesterday that Coleman would remain as captain during his tenure. The Everton player is no stranger to making large donations having recently contributed to the Feed The Heroes fundraiser.
You can donate to Do It For Dan here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/1x3knoyjlc?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet
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