Hi our names are Carol and Sandra, and we are reaching out on behalf of our niece Hannah, nephew Cormac, and their parents, Brendan and Janice—who is our sister.

On January 2nd, 2025, our lives changed forever when Hannah suffered a catastrophic haemorrhagic stroke. She underwent an emergency craniotomy and was given just a 20% chance of survival. What followed was a long and incredibly challenging journey, including 10 months in hospital fighting to recover.

Hannah has shown extraordinary strength and determination. She has had to relearn how to walk, talk, and eat again—things most of us take for granted. While her recovery has been nothing short of remarkable, she has been left with 42% paralysis on her right side. Today, she can walk short distances with the aid of an assisted foot orthotic, but she still faces significant daily challenges.

During Hannah’s time in the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dublin, her mum Janice made the decision to leave her job and relocate to be by her side full-time. This meant taking on the role of Hannah’s full-time carer, as well as covering the costs of accommodation and living expenses in Dublin. Meanwhile, Brendan remained at home to continue working and to care for Cormac, doing everything he could to keep the family afloat.

The financial strain on the family has been immense. Despite applying for all available grants, they have been refused support due to assessments based on previous dual-income earnings—an income that no longer reflects their current reality. Not a single grant has been awarded.

Hannah’s recovery is ongoing, but the family home is not suitable for her needs. She remains at risk of falls, and everyday tasks are difficult and, at times, unsafe. The bathroom is not accessible for her to use independently, and the stairs pose a serious hazard—even with assistance, there have already been falls.

To give Hannah the best chance at regaining independence and continuing her recovery, the family has begun building an extension to their home. This will include a fully accessible bedroom, bathroom, and living space designed specifically for her needs. This space will not only improve her safety but also restore some dignity and independence to her daily life.

We are asking for your help to support this incredibly deserving family. Every contribution, no matter how small, will go directly toward making Hannah’s home safe, accessible, and suitable for her continued recovery.

Hannah has fought so hard to get to where she is today. With your support, we can help her keep moving forward.

Thank you for taking the time to read Hannah’s story and for any support you can offer.