Organised by JP’s Paving and Landscaping
My name is Gemma McKevitt, and I am a mother of four wonderful children — Kayden, Hailey, Rylan, and Leighton. Three of my boys have additional needs, and our family is currently facing the most difficult and heart-breaking chapter of our lives.
Kayden’s Story
Kayden, my eldest, is 13 years old and has severe, complex medical needs. He relies on his moulded wheelchair and requires 24/7 care. He cannot eat orally and is fed through a Mickey button feeding tube in his stomach for both his nutrition and medication. He must be hoisted between his chair and his bed, and every part of his day requires full assistance.
Recently, our world turned upside down. Kayden has developed a 106-degree curve in his spine, and his left lung has fully collapsed as a result. Doctors shared the devastating news that this condition is fatal, affecting his organs, causing severe pain, and placing extraordinary strain on his body.
Despite everything, Kayden remains the brightest light — always smiling, always fighting, always inspiring everyone who meets him.
He is now on an emergency waitlist for major spinal surgery, a complex 12-hour operation that carries significant risks. Before doctors can make their final decision, he must undergo extensive testing, including breathing assessments, a heart ultrasound on December 16th, and a pending MRI of his brain stem and spinal cord. The goal is to have a plan in place within the next six months.
Our Family’s Daily Reality
My two younger boys are both autistic, and while they are incredible children, some days can be especially challenging. My daughter Hailey is a wonderful big sister who always steps in to help when she can.
I am raising my children on my own. In September, I returned to college to pursue a pre-nursing course, hoping to eventually study nursing at DCU — a dream I’ve always had, inspired by my desire to help others.
This year marks three years cancer-free for me, but we recently lost my aunt to cancer. On top of everything, I am trying to bring my husband home to be with us, but our family visa was refused, and we are now searching for new options while navigating this overwhelming situation.
My mother and sister are my biggest support system. They help care for the kids while I attend Kayden’s appointments or stay with him in hospital, and I could not manage without them.
Why We Need Help
Between medical appointments, travel costs, specialised equipment needs, daily expenses, and the emotional and financial strain of caring for four children — three with additional needs — I am struggling to keep our family afloat during this crisis.
This fundraiser will help with:
• Travel and accommodation for Kayden’s hospital stays
• Medical and specialised care expenses
• Support for the children at home
• Legal and application fees for our family visa situation
• Basic living costs while I continue caring for Kayden full-time
Thank You
No amount is too small. Your support means the world to us — whether it’s a donation, a share, or simply keeping Kayden and our family in your thoughts and prayers.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping us hold onto hope.