The gift of a kidney transplant has made the world of difference to Tipperary boy

2023 has been a year of unforgettable blessings for nine-year-old Finn O’Shea and his family from Shamrock Hill, Clonmel, who are looking forward to a very special Christmas.

This is the first time in ten years that they are free from the shackles of his kidney disease, thanks to a life-changing transplant made possible by the selfless family of an organ donor.

Last February, after young Finn’s lifetime of sickness, he was called to CHI Temple Street for a kidney transplant. The successful transplant, made possible by a selfless donor family, marked a turning point in Finn’s health, allowing him to embrace life and engage in activities and his passion for sport.

Up until his transplant it had been a very difficult time for Finn and his parents, Eoin and Lisa, and 18-year-old brother Rian, whose lives revolved around the uncertainties of his condition.

His mother Lisa, an art therapist, says “Finn was diagnosed, when he was six weeks old, with underdeveloped kidneys. His childhood has been marked with frequent hospital visits to Crumlin and Temple Street hospitals, with plenty of overnight stays there and numerous medical challenges.

“He missed out on so much of a normal early childhood, with lengthy absences from school and spending time with kids of his own age. Even though he couldn’t enjoy playing, he loved supporting his dream team Manchester United on TV and enjoyed watching hurling and football.

“For over two years, until his transplant, he was connected to a dialysis machine throughout the night for ten hours at a time, for six nights out of seven nights every week. He struggled to keep food down and regular sickness and tiredness was the norm. A kidney donor has literally changed his life.

“His recovery post-transplant has been remarkable. He is now back at school enjoying spending time with his friends.

“His dad, who was his main carer, has returned to work as a postman, and An Post have been very supportive throughout our journey. I am training to be a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist while Rian is working, while considering his career options”.

“There was huge excitement when just six months after his transplant he was given the opportunity to be the mascot for his team, Manchester United, when they played against Athletic Bilbao at the Aviva Stadium in August”.

Finn was overjoyed to be invited to walk out on the pitch with his Manchester United football heroes.

“Our thanks go to Make a Wish Foundation for arranging this. It was another special day in a year of blessings that he will never forget.

Above: Finn O'Shea encourages people to carry organ donor cards

“Finn’s older brother Rian’s support and understanding was unwavering. Hospital appointments and prolonged absences from home became a routine part of our lives.

“Seeing my older son stay strong and selfless during tough times makes me proud of him and really shows how resilient he was through the challenging times, when Finn’s illness demanded much of our attention and time. It makes you aware of the silent sacrifices made by the siblings of sick children.

“But the ultimate selfless sacrifice is that which organ donor families make to help families like ours and we will never forget their ‘gift of life’”.

Lisa says that she and Eoin are so grateful to the doctors and nurses at Temple Street and Crumlin who cared for him so well; and their incredible families for their unwavering support.

They are also grateful to the Irish Kidney Association for all its support.

For organ donor cards visit www.ika.ie.