LITTLE Conall Shiels from Donegal celebrated his first birthday back in June, and yet he’s already lived through unbearably difficult circumstances.
Conall, from Conwal, Letterkenny, was born with congenital hydrocephalus, a condition that causes fluid to accumulate in the brain, and his prognosis was heartbreaking. His mother, Aoife, was told to expect the worst during her pregnancy but he’s surprised everyone with his fighting spirit.
Tonight (Friday) Aoife’s husband Kieran, Conall’s granddads Cathal Crossan and Charlie Shiels and her uncles, Patch and Tom Crossan, will be among those taking part in a ‘Shave, Dye or Bad Hair Day’ in St Eunan’s GAA Club House, Letterkenny.
All monies raised will go to the Jack and Jill Foundation and the Good and New Cancer Bus service.
“Jack and Jill have given a life-line to our family. They provide us with a nurse so that we can continue with some form of normality in our lives – for example, taking the other two kids to swimming lessons, weekly shopping, respite care etc,” Aoife explained.
The couple have two older children Cara (7) and Senan (5), both of whom attend Woodland National School where Kieran is a teacher.
“Conall celebrated his first birthday back in June which, in itself, was a miracle. Initially, I was told he wouldn’t survive the pregnancy but he surprised us and he continues to do just that. Every day is special,” she said.
Aoife’s cousin Darren Crossan is also taking part in tonight’s fund-raising event.
“It’s when you see at first hand the care and assistance that the Jack and Jill Foundation provide for Conall and his family that gets us all together to help raise money for a worthy cause.
“We, as a family, are not just raising money for the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation but also for the Good and New Cancer bus service so if you meet a member of the Crossan or Shiels families and want to sponsor us it will be very much appreciated.
“You are more than welcome to join us on the night where some well known local faces will be adding a touch of colour and a bit of crazy to their lives,” he said.
There will be live music from Attic Antics and DJ PK. There will also be a raffle on the night with some great prizes.
Doors open at 8pm this evening.