Ciaràns Journey to Recovery

Fit, healthy and living life to the fullest, a first year student in Carlow IT, Ciaráns world revolves around football and hurling!

From a young age Ciaràns love and passion for Gaa was evident. As soon as he was old enough he joined his local club HWH Bunclody. Always giving 110%, Ciaràn started representing his County from the young age of 13. He progressed with his Club and County through each underage level. At 17 Ciarán captained the Wexford Minor Football team. In 2020 Ciaráns hardwork and determination paid off when at 19 years of age he reached his ultimate goal and earned his place on the Wexford Senior Football Panel.

His biggest battle was always on the field!!

On the evening of Saturday 21st August 2021, 20 year old Ciaràn Kavanaghs life was turned upside down.

He presented to Wexford General Hospital feeling unwell. Within hours Ciaràn was being transferred to Dublin with the biggest battle he has ever had to face; the battle for his LIFE!!

Less than 24 hours later, on Sunday evening Ciaràn was clinging to his life in ICU and put in an induced coma. His body was starting to fail but thanks to the fast work of his doctors it was discovered his liver had failed and he needed a liver transplant! Time wasn’t on his side and by some miracle that same night a liver was on the way.

Ciaràn came out of his operation in a coma and remained in ICU. He wasn’t out of the woods just yet. Thankfully after 3 days the signs were looking good. Ciaráns body was accepting the liver.

On Friday, day 5 post operation, Ciarán proved just how strong and resilient he was when without warning he awoke from the coma but remains in ICU.

The above may seem like his journey is now over but this is just the beginning!!

As a result of the operation and the transplant, Ciaràn had lost the sight in one eye and will require ongoing kidney dialysis.

Ciaráns life for now has dramatically changed. What we do know is, he has a long road of recovery ahead.

Ciarán is a very valued member of our community, anyone that knows Ciarán knows they have met someone with a lot of heart who has so much yet to offer. Ciarán can still achieve so much with the help and support of us all. He has been an inspiration to so many young people on and off the field for many years. The support he receives now will help shape his future.

All funds raised will be aimed at helping Ciaràn get the best care and rehabilitation that he needs.