Wexford GAA is honoured to lend its support to a vital ‘Give Blood’ campaign in memory of a young Carlow GAA player who sadly passed away at the tragically young age of 21.
OisÃn Kelly, a member of Naomh Eoin GAA club, was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in 2021, and after a lengthy battle, he sadly passed in August 2023. Throughout his illness OisÃn received many blood and platelet transfusions, and he and his family learned that many cancer patients require blood and platelet transfusions as part of their treatment – this was a vital part of the treatment for OisÃn. He aimed to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation, especially among young people.
His vision was that GAA clubs and players could be powerful advocates for this and his message was simple: ‘Every drop counts, I know’.
What many people don’t realise is that 67% of donated blood is used to treat cancer patients and people with blood disorders. Finding this out himself was what inspired OisÃn to raise awareness with his fellow club-members and the wider GAA community.
On the pitch OisÃn, was a hugely dedicated hurler and footballer who always gave absolutely everything of himself. Off it, he brought the same qualities to his battle with cancer, and the strength he showed in the face of adversity will always be a source of inspiration for those close to him.
His family believes that because GAA clubs are the beating hearts of so many communities in this country, they can make a huge contribution to addressing the critical shortage of blood in the Irish health system. To this end, we encourage all Wexford clubs to support upcoming blood donation clinics being held at the Talbot Hotel. Details of times & dates in the notice below.
