DJ Carey’s Fraudulent Claims Spark Outrage Among Faith Healers

DJ Carey, a former hurling star, has been sentenced to 5.5 years in prison after being convicted of fraudulently soliciting approximately €400,000 from 22 individuals under the pretense of undergoing treatment for cancer he did not have. The Dublin Circuit Criminal Court revealed that Carey misled donors by presenting falsified medical documentation, including forged signatures from doctors in both the United States and England.

Seamus Byrne, a faith healer associated with St Gemma’s Healing Ministry in Kilkenny, expressed his disbelief at Carey’s actions during a recent interview on RTÉ’s Prime Time. Byrne recounted that Carey initially reached out in October 2019 seeking prayer for healing.

“When people come with various difficulties—whether it’s cancer, heart problems, or depression—we work with them and do our best to help,” Byrne explained. He shared that Carey approached him privately due to his public persona at the time, and he agreed to pray with him, believing in the sincerity of his request.

As the case unfolded, it became evident that Carey’s claims of a miraculous healing were unfounded. “He supposedly had a great healing,” Byrne stated, “but it now turns out that he didn’t even have cancer.” The situation has left Byrne and others feeling deceived. “It’s sad that anybody would abuse or use anybody’s ministry like that,” he added, emphasizing his disappointment in Carey, someone he had previously held in high regard.

Carey’s fraudulent activities included providing misleading letters about a non-existent diagnosis of multiple myeloma. Notably, businessman Denis O’Brien was among those misled, contributing a total of €125,000 and $13,000 over nearly a decade based on these false claims. Byrne noted that Carey had promised to reward his healing efforts with a car, even making a €1,000 deposit at a local garage, but ultimately failed to finalize the purchase.

Byrne’s insights into this situation reflect a broader issue of trust within faith-based healing practices. He remarked, “I didn’t realize that somebody could stoop to that level,” highlighting the emotional toll such deception can take on both practitioners and those seeking help.

The case against Carey serves as a stark reminder of the potential for exploitation in vulnerable circumstances. As the legal ramifications unfold, the impact on those involved continues to resonate, prompting discussions about the ethical responsibilities of both healers and those who seek their aid.