Zach McCrossan showing ‘incredible bravery and resilience’ after transplant

The family of Donegal boy Zach McCrossan say he is showing “strength well beyond his years” in his recovery from a stem cell transplant.

Four-year-old Zach from St Johnston has been diagnosed with a rare blood disorder, a high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) that progresses to acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). His only chance is a bone marrow transplant, which isn’t available in Ireland.

Zach is now five days into his recovery journey after his stem cell transplant at the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology in Utrecht, Netherlands. Zach’s family issued an update on his recovery.

“Today marks Day 5 post-transplant for Zach, and while the journey is far from easy, he continues to show incredible bravery and resilience,” said Zach’s father Gary.

While Zach is “navigating tough side effects”, Gary says his “sense of humour hasn't gone anywhere” and “he's still finding the energy to crack jokes”.

READ NEXT: Naomh Conaill GAA presents donations to Glenties man for Zambia immersion trip

Zach’s mother Patrice had to fly out from the Netherlands to attend a routine consultation in St James’s Hospital, Dublin. Mother-of-four Patrice continues to receive treatment after being diagnosed with AML just last year.

“We're thinking of her and sending wishes for a smooth journey,” said Gary. “We can't wait to have her back at Zach's side in just a couple of days.

“Thank you all for your continued support, love, and good wishes. Every kind word and thought means the world to Zach and our family.”

Zach is expected to be an inpatient at the Dutch hospital for at least three months. A fundraising campaign raised over €150,000 to support Zach and his family.