By Dionne Meehan
A LETTERKENNY family whose son passed away when he was just ten days old are marking his second birthday by hosting a fundraising quiz.
Born 17 weeks early to parents Darren and Ciara Duffy on April 4, 2023, baby Blake’s survival rate was only 10 per cent.
Within a matter of hours, Blake was rushed to the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin where he spent the first eight days of his life.
Despite a lot of positivity at the beginning, Blake took a turn for the worst when he contracted an infection in his stomach.
Transferred to Crumlin Children’s Hospital, he immediately underwent surgery to remove the infection.
However, despite best efforts, not all of the infection could be removed and he passed away at just ten days old.
During their time in Dublin, Ciara and Darren were anxious to leave Blake’s side.
But, when a social carer working at the Rotunda introduced them to Hugh’s House, they found that they were only a stone throw away.
Speaking to the Donegal News about the amazing charity, Blake’s mother Ciara said it was a home away from home.
“You have everything you need there,” she said.
“The lady who runs it was in a similar situation to us, her son passed away at a hospital away from home.
“She set it up in his memory and it is all charity based.”
Now wanting to give back for the incredible care they received during Blake’s short life, the Duffy family are hosting a fundraising quiz on what would have been his second birthday.
The quiz is taking place in the Station House Hotel in Letterkenny on April 4 at 9pm.
All proceeds raised from the event will be donated to the Rotunda Hospital, Crumlin Children’s Hospital and Hugh’s House, who have been described as “earth angels” by Blake’s mother Ciara.
Those that can’t make it on the night but wish to donate can do so via https://gofund.me/0df322a0
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