BREAKING: Tipperary community rallies to support family of young man critically ill in Thailand
Family launches fundraiser to travel to his bedside as medical bills mount
The local community has rallied around the family of Billy Ashford, a young Tipperary man who remains in intensive care in Thailand after falling seriously ill last week.
Billy, who has been living abroad, was taken to hospital on 29 October and has since been placed on a ventilator in the intensive care unit. His family say they have been in constant contact with doctors at the hospital as they monitor his condition.
A GoFundMe appeal launched by his aunt Keisha Hannon has drawn widespread support and sympathy from people across Tipperary and beyond.
“It’s with sadness and a heavy heart that we’ve come to the conclusion to ask for help from family and friends, near and far,” Ms Hannon said. “My nephew Billy has taken seriously ill over in Thailand and is over there by himself. His hospital bill is already almost €10,000.
“Our main aim is to get family out to his bedside and be with him right now. Any donation of any sort would be greatly appreciated. Please keep Billy in your prayers — he’s really not doing well.”
The fundraiser has received a strong response from friends, neighbours, and members of the wider community, who have shared messages of support for the family online.
Anyone wishing to contribute to the appeal can do so through the GoFundMe page “Help Get Billy’s Family to Thailand”.