Positive update from family of Ardara man critically injured in Florida crash

The family of an Ardara man who was critically injured in a traffic accident in Florida has said that he is “conscious, breathing without aid and attempting to speak.”

Daniel Gallagher of Meenakillew, Ardara, was involved in the accident on December 29 in Orlando, Florida, while on holiday with family.

A fundraising drive has enabled family members to make the trip to Orlando to visit Daniel during his recovery. They describe his progress as “slight” but “very positive” and thanked everyone who has helped in any way.

“We would like to update everyone on Daniel’s progress and to thank everyone for their overwhelming generosity,” an update on Daniel’s GoFundMe page, organised by the Friends of Daniel Gallagher, shared on Friday.

“It will be three weeks today, since Daniel’s accident and every day he is making slight progress. He is currently conscious, breathing without aid and attempting to speak, which is very positive.

“He is taking small steps in the right direction but still has a long road ahead. Your kindness has been of great comfort during this difficult time. Please continue to keep Daniel in your thoughts and prayers.”

You can donate to Daniel's GoFundMe here

Daniel suffered severe injuries and at the time of the accident was in critical condition in Orlando Regional Medical Centre and under constant 24-hour care by a team of doctors.

A group of Daniel's friends came together to set up this campaign to support Daniel and the Gallagher family to cover medical and travel expenses as there will need to be a family member available at all times in Orlando with power of attorney to make important decisions on his behalf if and when the need arises. The GoFundMe has already surpassed €110,000.

“Hopefully Daniel can make a full recovery and can return home to Ireland as soon as doctors deem him well enough to travel,” the Friends of Daniel Gallagher shared on the original GoFundMe post.

“If anyone is not comfortable donating on GoFundMe and wants to contact the committee they can do so privately through the contact button on this page. We thank you all sincerely for your support and prayers.”

Donors should be aware that there is no obligation to add a 'Tip' to GoFundMe while donating. They already receive a commission on each donation. Just slide the tip lever down to zero on the page. If anyone wants to contact the committee directly to donate by any other means or Revolut etc they can contact any of the following: Martin Dorrian 087-2274404, Lorraine McHugh 087-9087501, John McConnell 087-7620045, Noel Gallagher 083-3747213; USA - Peter McGill +1 (646) 509-9506, Red Dec Gallagher +1 (847) 730-7449 or on friendsofdanielgallagher@gmail.com

Earlier this month, the local community gathered at the Church of the Holy Family, Ardara for a mass to pray for Daniel’s recovery.