Electrician, 21, suffers life-changing injuries in ‘split second’ freak accident at football game as community rallies

His injuries mean he will be unable to work for at least six months

ROAD TO RECOVERY Electrician, 21, suffers life-changing injuries in ‘split second’ freak accident at football game as community rallies

A YOUNG apprentice electrician suffered devastating injuries in a freak accident while playing for his local GAA team last September.

Now Brian O'Connor's club and his local rural community in Co Cork have rowed in behind his family as he begins the long road to fully recovering his health.

2 The young man was seriously injured in the incident Credit: GoFundMe

2 The community is supporting Brian O'Connor and his family Credit: GoFundMe

On Friday, September 13 last, life changed for the young player who had lined out for his team in a Junior A Football Championship game.

It only took seconds during an accidental collision for the 21-year-old to suffer devastating injuries, including a ruptured bowel and significant abdominal trauma.

According to details published on a fund raising page set up by the Liscarroll Churchtown Gaels GAA committee, Brian underwent an emergency eight-hour surgery at Cork University Hospital the day after the "split second" collision.

This was followed by a second surgery one week later on his pancreas, resulting in Brian spending almost two weeks in the Intensive Care Unit fighting bravely to recover.

The club said: "After six gruelling weeks in hospital, Brian was discharged home still under clinical care supported by Community Intervention Team at MPHC and weekly visits to the Mercy Hospital Cork, all supported by his mother Karen, and Martin.

"Brian now faces a long road ahead on his recovery journey.

"At just 21 years old, Brian is a fourth-year apprentice electrician.

"Unfortunately, his injuries mean he will be unable to work for at least six months.

"The financial burden of lost earnings, combined with ongoing medical expenses, has placed immense strain on Brian and his family during an already challenging time.

"We, the Liscarroll Churchtown Gaels community, are rallying together to support Brian and his loved ones.

"This GoFundMe page is our way of giving back to someone who has given so much to our club and the sport he loves."

The club told how Brian has "always" been a "dedicated teammate, fierce competitor and a kind-hearted friend" in a sweet tribute to the young lad.

They continued: "Now, he needs our help. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in helping Brian and his family navigate this difficult period.

"Please join us in supporting Brian’s recovery and showing him that he is not alone on this journey.

"Your generosity and kindness will mean the world to Brian and his family.

"Thank you for standing with us, The Liscarroll Churchtown Gaels Committee"

People have responded generously to help the young player regain full health and in just 24 hours of being launched yesterday over €10,000 has been raised.

If you'd like to donate to the fundraiser, you can do so on the GoFundMe page 'Support Brian O'Connor on his Road to Recovery'.

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