On the 18th of May 2025, 13-year-old Lorek became suddenly ill at home and was rushed to University Hospital Waterford with severe chest pain and no movement in his left leg. After urgent blood tests and a CT scan, doctors discovered he had suffered an aortic dissection – a tear in the main artery to his heart.

Lorek was immediately transferred to Children’s Hospital Crumlin, where a surgical team was waiting to perform life-saving surgery. The operation was long and complex. His heart valve was replaced, and the top artery to his heart was repaired. The surgery was successful, but Lorek suffered three mini strokes and lost the use of his left leg.

Further scans revealed a second aneurysm in his aorta that cannot currently be operated on, as well as damage to arteries leading to his brain. More surgeries may be needed to ensure blood flow to his brain, and he may also require plastic surgery due to other injuries sustained.

Lorek’s recovery will involve intensive rehabilitation, specialist medical care, and time. His family is now facing the unimaginable – not just emotionally, but financially too. His parents have had to stop working to care for him full-time.

We are fundraising to help cover medical costs, transport, accommodation near the hospital, and to support Lorek’s recovery journey. There will also be local fundraising events, and donations to either the GoFundMe or the events will be gratefully appreciated.

Lorek is a brave and inspiring young man. Your support – whether through a donation or by sharing this fundraiser – will help ease the burden on his family and bring hope during a very difficult time.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.