Fahy Family Celebrates Double Joy: Tomás’ Recovery and Róisín’s Graduation

The Fahy family from Ballinasloe is celebrating two significant milestones: the successful recovery of their son, Tomás Ó Brion Fahy, following a lifesaving transplant, and the graduation of his sister, Róisín Fahy, with an honours degree. This heartwarming double celebration occurred just six months after Tomás received a bone marrow transplant from Róisín.

On the day of Róisín’s graduation from the University of Limerick, Tomás had his medication tube removed, marking a crucial step in his recovery journey. His transplant took place at Leeds University Hospital in March 2023, shortly after he was diagnosed with Aplastic Anaemia. This rare condition affects approximately two in a million people and results in the bone marrow’s inability to produce sufficient red and white blood cells, as well as platelets.

Tomás’s mother, Úna Ní Bhroin, recalls the challenging journey. She first noticed unusual bruising on Tomás while he was swimming, which led to the diagnosis. “Everything went as well as it could have,” she reflected. The family spent two months in the UK for Tomás’s recovery, which was shorter than the anticipated three months, before being transferred back to Crumlin Children’s Hospital in Dublin.

Celebrating Achievements and Milestones

The day’s events were not only significant for Tomás but also for Róisín, who received the Cooperative Education Award for her placement at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Úna expressed her pride in both of her children, stating, “He reached another milestone when he had his Hickman line removed at the hospital and was feeling so good that we were all able to drive to Limerick for Róisín’s graduation, which was fantastic.”

The family’s experience highlights the importance of organ donation and the resilience of young patients. Tomás looks forward to returning to Scoil Uí Cheithearnaigh in Ballinasloe for the Christmas holidays, a sign of hope and recovery after a challenging year.

The Fahy family’s story serves as a reminder of the power of familial support and the impact of medical advances in treating rare conditions. Their journey reflects both the challenges faced and the joy that can emerge from overcoming adversity.