Donations are pouring in from across the country for a Co Clare teenager who suffered a devastating life-changing injuries during GAA training last week.
Thousands of people have raised €300k in less than 24-hours a GoFundMe campaign set up for Joe Slattery.
Joe, who sat his Junior Cert this year, was injured last Thursday after an accident while training with Corofin GAA. In a heartbreaking update, a club spokesperson said the young dual player has had surgery and is in a "controlled induced coma".
The young man's family said they are "blown away by the generosity" of everyone who has supported them so far, and that the money will go a long way in helping to support Joe in "adapting to his changed life."
Joe, who won Junior Cert student of the year at his school, has represented Co Clare in both hurling and football. The teenager has been described by friends and family as being "loved and respected by all who know him."
Corofin GAA said it will be the final update for some time on Joe's condition as his family "will need time and space to process the long road ahead for Joe,
"Joe, as always, will take on a battle and knowing how much support and goodwill is out there for him will help him along the way."
The online fundraiser was set up yesterday evening by Joe's uncle Clive Slattery with a goal of €475k to go towards the teenager's recovery. On behalf of the Slattery and Jones families, he wrote: "Joe suffered life-changing injuries which will necessitate lifelong care. Joe is a big brother, a son, a friend and a team-mate.
"He is loved and respected by all who know him. He has represented Clare in hurling and football and was Junior Cert student of the year 2024 in his school. We, Joe’s family, ask for your help in supporting Joe in adapting to his changed life."
See the GoFundMe here.
