Fíonn is happiest when he is playing sports with his friends and his favourite place to be is on the GAA pitch!
Fíonn was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, and has had to spend long days with his parents undergoing chemotherapy treatment at Cork University Hospital. Playing hurling with his friends and enjoying simply being a child was suddenly replaced by doctors appointments and extensive chemotherapy treatment. But despite his medical diagnosis, he has remained incredibly strong, being a massive source of inspiration for his family and friends.
Whilst undergoing treatment, Fíonn and his mum Karen learned that he could apply for a wish. Being able to imagine his wish coming true, and focusing on better days was a huge source of strength for Fíonn. It became his escape during treatments, something exciting he could focus on when everything around him felt uncertain.
Our volunteers Mike and Gerry met with Fíonn to learn more about him. Fíonn told us that he is a big Manchester United and Cork fan. If he could have one thing on a desert island, it would be his hurley! However, his diagnosis has meant that he was been unable to play sports at the moment, needing to focus all of his strength on his recovery. We learned that his wish was to have gym equipment at home, to help him rebuild his health and fitness, and return to the sports that he loves.
Fíonn’s wish day arrived recently, where his very own custom gym equipment was set up in his garage. The equipment included an adjustable pull-up bar, a bench press and his own treadmill! Fionn’s dad told us afterwards: “Thank you so much, Fíonn loves his gym equipment, we all do!”
Fíonn will be able to use his gym equipment long after his wish day, as an integral part of his recovery. His wish is a powerful reminder of the long-lasting impact that wishes have for critically-ill children across the country.
