The aunt of an eight-year-old boy from Co Tyrone who remains in hospital after a serious accident earlier this year has thanked her social work colleagues who have come together to raise funds for his family.
Omagh boy Joe Donaghy received a serious brain injury as a result of the accident in October and remains in Royal Victoria Hospital for Sick Children in Belfast.
A ‘Jog for Joe’ fundraiser organised by Joe’s local GAA club Omagh St Enda’s has raised over £12,000, with social workers from Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex taking part.
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Joe’s aunt Brenda Donnelly, who works as a social worker in the facility, said she was overwhelmed by the support from her colleagues.
“I am truly overwhelmed by the support from my colleagues who have been incredible in helping to raise funds for my wonderful nephew Joe,” Brenda said.
“The team decided to complete a one mile ‘walk for Joe’ each day during the month of November.
“We then held a coffee morning last week to say thank you to all the staff involved and for the support of all our colleagues in the hospital. A total of £650 was raised at the coffee morning.”
The social worker added the kindness shown by those in the hospital and the wider community since Joe’s injury has ‘meant the world to the family.
She said that Joe is making good progress with his injury and the family are hoping to have him home to celebrate Christmas.
“The kindness and friendship shown by the staff has meant the world to me and Joe’s family and is a through reflection of the wonderful team spirit here in the hospital.
“It is this team support that enables staff to continue in their work when they are going through a very difficult time.
“We are delighted to say Joe is making remarkable progress and we hope he will be able to celebrate Christmas at home with his family.
“Thank you to everyone who supported St Enda’s GAA Club ‘Jog for Joe’ and for their continued prayers. It is greatly appreciated.”
The 'Jog for Joe' fundraiser is available to donate to via the GoFundMe page here.
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