GoFundMe set up to help premature Donegal baby Odhrán in his Fight for Life

A fundraising drive is underway to help a premature baby boy waiting for urgent heart surgery.

Little Odhrán McGinley from Glenfin was born eight weeks prematurely before Christmas with a serious congenital heart condition and has been battling ever since, with a series of complications having been born so early.

Odhrán’s mother Linda is from Rathdonnell in Trentagh and his dad, Bernard, is from Ballybofey. Maelisa Boyle (nee McGettigan) from Letterkenny, who is now living in Creeslough, set up the fundraiser, which raised over €6,000 overnight.

You can donate to the GoFundMe - Little Odhrán's Fight for Life - here

Maelisa posted: “Hi everyone, we are setting up this GoFundMe on behalf of Linda and Bernard McGinley, Odhrán's parents.

“Little Odhrán was born eight weeks premature on 12th December 2024 with a serious congenital heart condition. From the beginning, he has faced unimaginable challenges and despite the odds, he has shown an incredible will to live, stunning doctors and nurses with his determination.

“Odhrán's journey began in the NICU ward in the Letterkenny University Hospital, then transferred to the National Maternity Hospital in Dublin. His early arrival meant that his tiny body had to fight hard for every breath and heartbeat.

“There have been several terrifying moments when his wee life hung in the balance but each time, Odhrán has pulled through with a tenacity that has inspired everyone around him. Odhrán has since been moved to Crumlin hospital where he has already had one open heart surgery - pulmonary artery banding - as well as a BAS procedure (balloon atrial septostomy).

“He has been diagnosed with TGA (transposition of the great arteries), DORV (double outlet right ventricle), AVSD (atrioventricular septal defect) and he is currently waiting for a major open-heart surgery (nikaidoh).

“His days are filled with interventions, monitoring and a constant battle to keep his wee fragile body stable. The road to recovery is long and uncertain. For Odhrán's parents and sisters, the emotional toll is immense. Every day is a rollercoaster of hope and fear, as they watch their precious baby fight for his life. They have been by his side every step of the way offering their love and support, despite the exhausting and heart-wrenching journey.

“Any funds that are raised will help cover the loss of income during this critical time. Odhrán's parents are devoted to their son’s care, but their inability to work has placed an enormous strain on their resources. This is where you can help make a difference. Our goal is to raise enough funds to alleviate the financial stress, allowing them to focus entirely on his recovery, allowing them to travel between Donegal and Dublin, covering living expenses while in Crumlin Hospital. Thank you.”